Storm Idalia to intensify into major hurricane as it heads toward Florida and Cuba

Florida and Cuba are bracing for Tropical Storm Idalia, which is expected to intensify into a dangerous Category 3 hurricane, forecasters say.

Idalia is expected to gain hurricane force before making landfall in Big Bend, Florida, on Wednesday, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) said.

Another storm, Franklin, could bring life-threatening storm surges to the US East Coast and Bermuda.

It comes as the Atlantic hurricane season nears its peak.

 Florida Governor Ron DeSantis warned the storm -- likely to make landfall there as a hurricane on Wednesday -- could have major impacts along the Gulf of Mexico, telling a news conference that evacuations would take place and residents should prepare.