Potential Tropical Cyclone One—currently drifting northeastward over the southeastern Gulf of Mexico—is expected to become Tropical Storm Alex later Friday.  The tropical system should cross the southern part of Florida’s peninsula on Saturday, delivering gusty winds and 4 to 8 inches of rain, with locally higher amounts.  Meanwhile, cool, showery conditions will dominate the northern and central Plains, Midwest, and Northwest, resulting in 5-day rainfall   totaling 1 to 2 inches or more.  In addition, temperatures may not reach 70°F during the next 5 days in parts of Minnesota and the Dakotas. 

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