The Gulf Coast, including southern Louisiana and the Florida Panhandle, faces risks of flooding, storm surge, and strong winds. Rainfall amounts of 3 to 6 inches, with isolated totals up to 10 inches, are expected, potentially leading to flash flooding. Tornadoes may also develop within the storm's rainbands. Oil companies are evacuating personnel from offshore platforms, and Florida has declared a state of emergency for 25 counties, preparing supplies and disaster response measures.