TAMPA, Fla. — The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is actively monitoring an area of low pressure that may form off the southeastern coast of the U.S., with potential impacts expected across Florida and the Gulf of Mexico next week.

Forecasters say the system could develop as it moves westward over the Florida peninsula and into the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. While development remains uncertain, the current outlook gives it a 0% chance of formation in the next 48 hours, and a 20% chance over the next 7 days.

Even without formal tropical development, heavy rainfall is expected across parts of Florida and the southeastern U.S. next week. Flood-prone areas across Central and South Florida — including cities like Tampa, Miami, Naples, and Orlando — are being advised to prepare for multiple rounds of downpours and possible street flooding.

This early tropical activity comes as experts warn of a potentially hyperactive 2025 hurricane season. Warm sea surface temperatures and favorable atmospheric conditions are already fueling disturbances in the Atlantic and Gulf basins.

For preparedness, officials recommend tuning into weekly updates like Tracking the Tropics every Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. ET, or following the 2025 Hurricane Guide from WFLA News Channel 8. You can also subscribe to the Tracking the Tropics Newsletter for the latest developments.

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