Tropical Depression #18 is forecast to become Tropical Storm Rita and strike the Bahamas within 48 hours, according to the National Weather Service. The Central and Southeast Bahamas are expected by the next day to receive tropical storm conditions, including winds of 30-60 miles per hour. The storm has the potential to become a hurricane before its predicted course takes it to the Florida Keys, and Governor Jeb Bush has declared a state of emergency in Florida, allowing evacuations and mobilization of the National Guard.