India, Oct. 7 -- Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for 25 Florida counties as Tropical Storm Isaias strengthens over the Gulf of America and heads toward the northern Gulf Coast. The emergency order was signed on October 6, when the system was still known as Tropical Depression Nine. It strengthened into Tropical Storm Isaias on October 7.

The storm is forecast to intensify further, with weather officials warning of heavy rain, flooding, strong winds and coastal impacts later this week. The National Weather Service expects Isaias to approach the Gulf Coast around Friday before moving inland.

Why Did DeSantis Declare a State of Emergency for 25 Florida Counties?

DeSantis signed Executive Order 26-202 on October...