ISTANBUL 

Tropical Storm Milton formed on Sunday in the Gulf of Mexico, intensifying concerns for Florida as it moves toward the state's coast, according to the US National Hurricane Center (NHC).

Milton became a tropical storm early Monday, with maximum sustained winds of 45 mph, the center said in a statement.

The system is expected to strengthen as it approaches Florida’s western shores. A tropical storm warning affects parts of Florida, including the Tampa Bay area.

Officials are urging residents to prepare for heavy rainfall, potential flooding, and strong winds in the coming days.

Milton’s path is projected to bring it near Florida's Big Bend region by midweek, before continuing northeast along the Atlantic coast.

Governor Ron DeSantis issued an emergency declaration on Saturday, placing 35 Florida counties under a state of emergency in anticipation of Tropical Storm Milton's potential landfall, CBS News reported.

The storm is currently moving north-northeast at a speed of 15 mph (24 km). While its wind speeds do not currently meet hurricane levels, the NHC warns that further intensification is possible as the storm moves over the warm Gulf waters.

Emergency management officials have activated plans, urging residents to monitor local advisories and prepare for possible evacuation orders.