Minnesota Public Radio is reporting that tropical storm Isaac is likely to reach hurricane strength by Wednesday.  Models are consistently focusing on a track near Florida on Monday next week.

While there is a chance that Isaac heads into the central Gulf of Mexico, the latest Global Forecasting System runs project a "Tampa direct hit" on Monday night, which could disrupt the Republican National Convention scheduled to begin the same day.

For years hurricane experts have warned that Tampa is one of the most vulnerable cities in the USA to a direct hit from a major hurricane.

Minnesota Public Radio reports that forecast models are showing tracks and intensity scenarios that produce very "expensive outcomes" for Florida.

Tampa residents are urged to start hurricane preparations, and not wait until the weekend.  If evacuations are called it will be increasingly tough to get out of town and get supplies.