TAMPA, Fla. (CBS) -- Tropical Storm Isaac is strengthening in the Caribbean and there are concerns it could be an uninvited guest at the upcoming GOP convention in Florida.
Tropical Storm Isaac is bringing wind and rain to the Dominican Republic as it moves towards the Gulf of Mexico. Dr. Rick Knabb, Director of the National Hurricane Center says, "It has strengthened since yesterday."
Forecasters expect Isaac to strengthen into a hurricane, but say it's still too early to predict exactly where the storm will strike the U.S. That's causing headaches in Tampa, where the Republican National Convention starts Monday.
RNC and state officials met Friday to discuss emergency plans. Florida Governor Rick Scott says he's optimistic the GOP will be able to keep to its schedule. He says, "Everybody's comfortable we're gonna have a great convention. They're gonna see maybe a little bit of rain and wind."
Delegates are already arriving here in Tampa for the four day convention. Officials are putting something extra in their welcome packets like information on storm preparedness.
Right now the storm is tracking west of Tampa, but even if it doesn't make a direct hit, low-lying areas could see flooding. Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn says, "What you really worry about here is tidal surge and that's where you get the loss of property and potential loss of life."
The Florida Keys may see Isaac first, and tourists there are already packing up. Forecasters are warning residents all along the Gulf Coast to get ready. Knabb says, "The threat is out there and preparation is key."
Florida officials say they are prepared and as of now the GOP party will kick-off as planned.
Forecasters say they'll know more about Isaac's strength and track when the storm reaches the Gulf of Mexico Monday. That's the day the GOP will take a roll call vote to officially select Governor Mitt Romney as the Republican presidential nominee.