(TALLAHASSEE, FLA) — Gov. Ron DeSantis has issued a state of emergency for South Florida as Tropical Depression Nine strengthens in the Caribbean.

There are 24 counties, including all five in South Florida, included in the designation.

The emergency declaration executive order ensures that important resources and funding will be available in the aftermath of a potential category 3 Hurricane Ian which is expected to slam into southwest Florida next Tuesday, according to the governor’s office.

The declaration states that: “There is a risk of dangerous storm surge, heavy rainfall, flash flooding, strong winds, hazardous seas, and the potential for isolated tornadic activity for the Florida Keys and much of Florida’s Peninsula.”

The Florida National Guard is also standing by to help.