Forecasters are watching an area around Florida's Gulf and Atlantic coasts for tropical development during the July 4 weekend.

There’s a growing chance that an area meteorologists are monitoring in the tropics could develop into a storm around the southeastern United States. If the system comes to fruition, heavy rain, gusty winds and rip currents could hit Florida,

The Fourth of July holiday is quickly approaching, but millions of people in Florida and the Southeast are keeping a close eye on the weather forecast that could halt outdoor and beach plans across the region.

There's a chance that Tropical Storm Chantal will form near Florida during Fourth of July weekend, which may dampen holiday festivities in the Sunshine State. The biggest threat from the developing system will be rain, AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva told Newsweek, although he doesn't expect Chantal to become a hurricane.

While water temperatures are warm enough in the Gulf to support tropical development, Saharan dust and wind shear could keep tropics quiet .. sort of.

Revelers traveling for July Fourth festivities may face delays due to stormy weather as the country braces for the busiest week of Independence Day air travel in 15 years