Tropical storm Colin was named yesterday, setting a new record for the earliest third storm in the Atlantic basin. Formed in the Gulf of Mexico, the storm has gained some strength and brings a threat of heavy rain. Tropical storm force winds are possible later today as well as high surf and coastal flooding.
Tropical storm warnings have been issued for parts of the Gulf Coast and Atlantic coast of Florida and watches are in effect as far north as Charleston, South Carolina. In addition, flash flood watches are in effect from the northern Georgia coast to the Outer Banks, which were just drenched by Tropical Storm Bonnie.
The expected storm path will curve to the right taking Colin across the Florida Peninsula tonight. Tomorrow the system will pop into the Atlantic just off the Southeast coast and follow the shoreline, bringing the center near the Outer Banks tomorrow afternoon and out to sea by tomorrow night.