States of emergency were declared Sunday in Florida, Mississippi, and Alabama, as Subtropical Storm Alberto made its way toward the Gulf of Mexico. The subtropical storm—the first of hurricane season—is expected to strengthen as it moves up the Gulf, and the National Hurricane Center warned Sunday it is already “slightly stronger” as it approaches Florida. Residents were warned to brace for heavy rains, strong winds, and a “hazardous storm surge.” Florida Gov. Rick Scott has issued an emergency declaration for all 67 counties in the state, while the governors of Mississippi and Alabama issued directives authorizing the deployment of the National Guard in some areas.
