Odds are now high that a system developing in the Gulf of Mexico could become a tropical depression or storm before it makes its way to Florida next week, according to the National Hurricane Center. As of the NHC’s 8 p.

The National Hurricane Center is giving the system in the Gulf of Mexico a medium potential (40% chance) for development. A broad area of low pressure is expected to form over the southwestern or south-central Gulf of Mexico this weekend and gradual development is possible as the low moves slowly eastward or northeastward.

A tropical or subtropical depression or storm could form next week. Another possibility: development of a compact hurricane.