Speed Reads
People along the Gulf and East Coasts are keeping a close eye on Hurricane Irma as the storm churns in the Atlantic Ocean. Early Monday, Irma was a Category 3 storm, with winds of 120 mph, and was gaining strength as it veered toward the Caribbean. Hurricane warnings were issued for the Leeward Islands, and a watch was issued for Puerto Rico, though forecasters still aren't sure where exactly the storm will make landfall. It could head north towards Florida and the Carolinas, or it could divert out to sea, though that's becoming less likely by the hour.
"Regardless, everyone in hurricane-prone areas should ensure that they have their hurricane plan in place, as we are now near the peak of the season," the National Hurricane Center said.