Hurricane Isaias rapid strengthening threatens northern Gulf coast

Hurricane Isaias continues to intensify Friday morning with 110 mph winds, putting the system on the verge of becoming a major Category 3 hurricane as it moves toward the northern Gulf coast.Major storm strengthens in GulfHurricane Isaias is gaining strength Friday morning, packing winds of 110 mph as it nears major hurricane status.Forecasters expect wind shear to cause some weakening near the northern Gulf coast, though the storm will remain dangerous.Warnings active across Gulf CoastHurricane warnings remain in effect from Ocean Springs, Mississippi, to the Bay/Gulf County line in the Florida panhandle.Storm surge near the center and east of landfall will reach 5 to 7 feet, with 1 to 3 feet of surge expected from Citrus to Pinellas counties Friday into the weekend.Drier weather on the horizonTropical downpours will remain likely through the weekend, bringing minor coastal flooding to parts of Florida.By Monday, rain clears out as drier air drops humidity levels and brings more sun e