Tropical Storm Cindy forms in Gulf of Mexico

Tropical Storm Cindy, the third tropical storm of 2017, has formed in the Gulf of Mexico.

Rainfall is the primary hazard with up to 12 inches expected in some areas between the Florida panhandle and Texas.

The system will not have a major impact on Jacksonville. Heavy tropical-like rains will occur through midweek with or without a direct tropical storm hit.

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The heaviest rain will be closer to the Florida Panhandle west to Texas, where total rainfall will exceed a foot along with a threat for isolated tornadoes.

Tropical storm watches and warnings extend from upper Texas to southeast Louisiana.

The path of the potential tropical cyclone in the Gulf of Mexico won't necessarily change rain chances in the Northeast Florida region.

The First Alert Weather team is continuing to monitor the storm, currently named Potential Tropical Cyclone 3.

Tropical Storm Bret, a storm system that was upgraded late Monday, will continue its northwestern track. It will eventually weaken in the Caribbean with no local impacts on Florida.

Download the FREE First Alert Weather App to receive video forecasts and instant severe weather warnings to your mobile device.

Cox Media Group