Hurricane Milton has undergone rapid intensification, prompting concerns for coastal regions in Florida and Mexico.

Forecasters upgraded Milton from a tropical storm to a hurricane a day earlier than predicted, and it is now expected to strengthen to Category 4 within the next two days.

Currently churning in the Gulf of Mexico with sustained winds of 85 miles per hour, Milton is approximately 805 miles away from Tampa as of Sunday 5 PM ET.

The Mexican government has issued a hurricane watch for the north coast of the Yucatán peninsula, anticipating a storm surge of up to 4 feet.

Rainfall from Milton is expected to be significant, ranging from 5-8 inches across portions of the Florida Peninsula and the Keys through Wednesday night.

This rainfall could lead to flash flooding, urban flooding, and minor to moderate river flooding.

A Flash Flood Watch is in effect for the Florida Peninsula starting Sunday morning. Additionally, a wave of moisture ahead of Milton will bring tropical downpours to the region beginning on Sunday.

While not a complete washout, localized areas could experience heavy rainfall leading to flash flooding.

Areas south of Interstate 4 are particularly vulnerable to significant rainfall due to a front sinking in from the north. Coastal regions should closely monitor weather forecasts and be prepared to receive flash flood warnings.

The anticipated rainfall from Sunday night to Wednesday is expected to range from 3 to 6 inches, with potentially higher totals in isolated areas.