Hurricane Isaias is heading for the US Gulf Coast. Here is what we know so far about the storm.

Isaias is strengthening over the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Forecasters say it could peak as a Category 3 hurricane before landfall.

Landfall is expected between Friday evening and early Saturday. The danger zone runs from Pascagoula, Mississippi, to Panama City, Florida. Models focus on the coast from Mobile, Alabama, to Pensacola, Florida.

At 4 a.m. CT on Thursday, the storm was moving east-northeast at 9 mph. It is expected to keep growing stronger.

About 11.2 million barrels of Gulf oil production could be lost as rigs shut down. Coastal residents have been told to check their emergency plans.

Weather Channel star Jim Cantore is already in Pensacola. Forecasters will update the track every few hours.

Officials warn of storm surge, heavy rain, and strong winds. People in the path should follow local orders.