Florida braces for hurricane after deadly Tropical Storm Erika hits Dominica

Tropical Storm Erika has dumped torrential rain on the eastern Caribbean island of Dominica.

At least four people are reported dead and 20 missing in the small, mountainous territory. Local media reported overflowing rivers and landslides washed away several roads and bridges.

The fifth named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, Erika is due to reach the US state of Florida on Monday, when it is expected to have turned into a hurricane. It has the potential to become the first hurricane to hit Florida since Wilma in October 2005.

Florida Governor Rick Scott held a statewide conference call with emergency officials, Florida National Guard, and local law enforcement.

He said 8,000 National Guard are ready to mobilise and communications had been tested in anticipation of Erika’s arrival.

Briefed on Tropical Storm #Erika by the @NHC_Atlantic at @FLSERT Emergency Operations Center. pic.twitter.com/iuQssfZNyQ

— Rick Scott (@FLGovScott) 27 Août 2015

Coastal residents should ensure they have a three-day supply of food and water, know where emergency shelters are and check on elderly or infirm friends and relatives, Scott said.