The Tampa Bay Times e-Newspaper is a digital replica of the printed paper seven days a week that is available to read on desktop, mobile, and our app for subscribers only. To enjoy the e-Newspaper every day, please subscribe.

As of Thursday afternoon, Sara had sustained winds of 40 mph and was located around 205 miles east-southeast of Isla Guanaja, Honduras, moving west, according to the National Hurricane Center. A tropical storm is labeled when wind speeds reach at least 39 mph.

In a worst-case scenario for the U.S., a major hurricane could hit Florida's Gulf coast, but forecasters say it would have to clear several hurdles.