Hurricane Isaias forcing Florida towns to issue mandatory evacuations as storm approaches

Hurricane Isaias is strengthening as it tracks toward the United States, prompting mandatory evacuations in parts of Florida and Alabama. Local authorities in the Florida Panhandle have ordered residents to leave areas in the storm's projected path ahead of an expected landfall late Friday.

Communities are bracing for significant impacts, including potential flooding and widespread power outages. Emergency declarations have been issued as officials prepare for the storm's arrival.