Isaias strengthens into a dangerous Category 3 hurricane on track toward the US Gulf Coast

Hurricane Isaias is projected to strengthen into a major hurricane on Friday as it tracks toward the United States Gulf Coast. Communities in the path of the storm, including areas near Bayou La Batre, Alabama, are actively undertaking final preparations.

Authorities and residents are bracing for potentially life-threatening conditions, which include severe storm surges and high winds. The storm is forecast to make landfall following its anticipated intensification.