`` Karen is expected to produce heavy rainfall over portions of western Cuba and the northeastern Yucatan Peninsula during the next day or so , '' according to the center 's advisory . Florida state declares a state of emergency in 18 counties . Karen predicted to be at or near hurricane strength late Friday , early Saturday . A tropical storm warning is issued for a part of southeastern Louisiana . FEMA suspended some of its employees who were furloughed during storm .
Florida state declares a state of emergency in 18 counties . Karen predicted to be at or near hurricane strength late Friday , early Saturday . A tropical storm warning is issued for a part of southeastern Louisiana . FEMA suspended some of its employees who were furloughed during storm .