Storm Idalia strengthens into hurricane ahead of Florida landfall

Tropical Storm Idalia has strengthened into a hurricane as it barrels towards Florida, with officials warning of potential destruction and risk to life.

It will intensify into an "extremely dangerous major hurricane", forecasters say, before slamming into the state's western shoreline on Wednesday.

Much of Florida, including the heavily populated area around Tampa, will be affected by severe weather.

High winds, heavy rain and potentially deadly storm surges are all forecast.

"Don't be complacent. Don't get relaxed," Mayor Dan Allers of Fort Myers Beach told residents on Monday.

The coastal...