WHAT’S HAPPENING: Irma barrels toward Florida, US Southeast

This Sept. 6, 2017 photo shows storm damage in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma in St. Martin. Irma cut a path of devastation across the northern Caribbean, leaving thousands homeless after destroying buildings and uprooting trees. Significant damage was reported on the island known as St. Martin in English which is divided between French Saint-Martin and Dutch Sint Maarten. (Jonathan Falwell via AP) This Sept. 6, 2017 photo shows storm damage in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma in St. Martin. Irma cut a path of devastation across the northern Caribbean, leaving thousands homeless after destroying buildings and uprooting trees. Significant damage was reported on the island known as St. Martin in English which is divided between French Saint-Martin and Dutch Sint Maarten. (Jonathan Falwell via AP)

By Associated Press September 8, 2017 4 min read

MIAMI (AP) – Hurricane Irma turned its deafening winds and punishing downpours toward Florida on Friday after strafing the Caribbean. The Sunshine state issued mandatory evacuations and was bracing for impact as the storm barreled toward the U.S. mainland.

Irma had maximum sustained winds of 150 mph (240 kph) by midday Friday. It is forecast to remain at Category 4 strength when it comes ashore someplace south of Miami on Sunday.

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WHAT’S AHEAD FOR IRMA?

The National Hurricane Center in Miami says hurricane conditions are expected in parts of South Florida and the Florida Keys Saturday night or early Sunday.