Tropical Storm Colin has formed in the Gulf of Mexico. Hurricane Hunter planes have found sustained winds indicative of a weak tropical storm.
A *TROPICAL STORM WARNING* remains in effect from Indian Pass to Englewood.
As of the latest advisory, Colin remains largely disorganized with 50 mph winds as it tracks north at 14 mph.
The latest track remains the same, taking Colin towards the Big Bend of Florida.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Rain will begin to overspread the region by early Monday as the outer bands of Tropical Storm Colin continue to move north towards the Big Bend of Florida. Rain will be widespread throughout the day with periods of heavy rain causing localized flooding problems in spots.
An Areal Flood Watch is in effect for all Southwest Florida counties through Tuesday. Rainfall could accumulate very quickly with 2 to 4 inches expected in many spots, and some spots getting even more rain than that. Be sure to exercise caution when driving and NEVER drive through roadways that look flooded.
The Storm Prediction Center has also highlighted all of Southwest Florida in a slight risk of severe weather on Monday, with the primary threat being isolated tornados. These can pop up with very little notice and at any point throughout the day, although the risk will be highest near the coast.
Be sure to have a way of receiving weather alerts throughout the day if the weather turns severe. You can get the Fox 4 STORM SHIELD Weather App in the Google Play and Apple App stores.
A lower tier threat will be for some strong gusty winds throughout the day. Although tropical storm winds are unlikely across the area, wind gusts of 30 mph will be common with stronger winds near the beaches. As a result, marine conditions will be VERY hazardous with very high seas and rough surf. A Small Craft Advisory is in effect through Tuesday and boaters should NOT go out on the water until that advisory is allowed to expire.
The storm system will exit the region in northeast Florida by late Tuesday and we should see the coverage of rain taper off by then.
