Tropical Storm Michael forms in the Caribbean, headed toward the Panhandle

A system developing in the western Caribbean strengthened into Tropical Storm Michael Sunday afternoon, bringing rain to Florida.

Though the center of Tropical Storm Michael will stay far west of the area, Central Floridians can expect wet weather this week, particularly from Tuesday through Thursday.

"It'll bring much needed rain to the area, though there could be some localized flooding in areas with poor drainge," said WFTV meteorologist George Waldenberger.

Potential Tropical Cyclone 14 developed in the Caribbean on Saturday afternoon, according to the National Hurricane Center. It has strengthened since then.

The forecast track shows Tropical Storm Michael currently heading to the Gulf of Mexico.

The storm is slated to make landfall near Pensacola on Wednesday, under the current track.

Satellite data shows the current maximum sustained winds around 40 mph with gusts even higher, according to the NHC.

Florida Gov. Rick Scott on Sunday warned that a tropical storm headed for the Florida Panhandle could become a Category 2 hurricane with winds up to 100 miles per hour by the time it makes landfall in the middle of the week.

Scott issued an order for a state of emergency for 26 counties in the Florida Panhandle and the Big Bend area. The declaration will free up resources for storm preparation.

"This storm will be life-threatening and extremely dangerous," Scott said after receiving a briefing at the State Emergency Operations Center.

The governor warned that storm surge could affect areas of Florida not in the storm's direct path.

"If this storm hit Panama City, Tampa could still have storm surge," said Scott, referring to two Florida cities about 375 miles apart by highway. "Every family must be prepared."

Scott also activated 500 members of the Florida National Guard ahead of the storm.

Cox Media Group