Imagine a storm brewing in the Caribbean, about 345 miles from Jamaica. It's moving northeast at 7 mph, with winds of 35 mph. Forecasters think it'll become a hurricane as it passes over Cuba and enters the Gulf of Mexico by midweek. The National Hurricane Center is keeping a close eye on this potential tropical cyclone, named 18.

Experts say there's a high chance this storm will grow stronger. It might become a tropical depression overnight and a tropical storm by early Tuesday. By Tuesday afternoon, it could even turn into a hurricane with winds over 74 mph. But once it hits the Gulf of Mexico, drier air might slow down its growth.

Residents along the Gulf Coast, especially in Florida, should be ready for heavy rain later in the week. Jamaica and the Cayman Islands might face hurricane conditions and heavy rainfall up to 9 inches. The storm could also cause coastal flooding and high surf in the western Caribbean.

What makes this storm interesting? The Gulf of Mexico has been warmer than usual since summer, with temperatures around 75 degrees this month. Warm water helps storms grow faster and stronger. Some experts think climate change might be making these storms more intense.

Caribbean Storm: Watch Out, Gulf!

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