NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — A new tropical storm has formed in the Gulf of Mexico, and it could make landfall as a major hurricane in Florida next week. Early this morning, satellite imagery revealed that the circulation around a low-pressure area in the southwestern Gulf of Mexico has become more defined. Due to the system's recent organization, the National Hurricane Center has officially classified it as Tropical Storm Milton. Storm Likely to Strike Florida Next Week Tropical Storm Milton has winds of 40 miles per hour (mph) and is currently moving north-northeast at about 3 mph. It is expected to drift northeastward over the next day or so. Afterward, a trough moving south over the northwestern Gulf is forecast to push the system east-northeastward at a slightly faster pace. By Tuesday, the storm is anticipated to pick up speed and move northeastward, potentially crossing Florida's west coast by the middle of next week. Although most forecast models are in good agreement on the storm’s future track, there are still some discrepancies in the storm’s forward speed.  The National Hurricane Center said Saturday afternoon residents are "reminded to not focus on the exact forecast track or timing at the longer range as the average NHC 4-day track error is about 150 miles. Rapid Intensification into Major Hurricane Possible The storm is currently in a favorable environment for strengthening, with low vertical wind shear and warm sea surface temperatures. These factors should allow for steady to rapid intensification over the coming days. Initially, intensification may be slow over the next 12 to 24 hours until an inner core develops. After that, the system is expected to strengthen more quickly. Both global and regional models predict significant deepening as the system moves across the central and eastern Gulf of Mexico, with some indicating the potential for rapid intensification. The official NHC forecast aligns with this outlook, expecting the storm to reach Category 3 (major hurricane) strength near landfall. Some upward adjustments to the forecast strength may be needed in the days ahead. Regardless of the exact intensity, a dangerous hurricane with multiple life-threatening hazards is expected to impact Florida’s west coast next week. Potential Storm Impacts for Florida There is an increasing risk of life-threatening storm surge and damaging winds for parts of Florida’s west coast, starting late Tuesday or Wednesday. The NHC says residents in these areas should finalize their hurricane preparations, heed advice from local officials, and stay informed on updates. Heavy rainfall is expected to impact portions of Florida as early as Sunday and Monday, well ahead of the storm's arrival. By late Tuesday and Wednesday, rain directly related to the storm will bring a heightened risk of flash flooding, urban flooding, and river flooding in some areas. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts Elon Musk makes appearance at Trump rally casting election in dire terms Former Capitol Police officer recounts Jan. 6: 'It's hard to relive' Hughes scores twice, Tulane adds TDs on defense and special teams in 71-20 rout of UAB Local organizations help mobilize relief efforts to those affected by Hurricane Helene ‘The fairy tale continues’: Anne Hathaway announces 'The Princess Diaries' trilogy