On the Treasure Coast, rainfall of between 5 and 10 centimeters and tropical storm-force winds are possible as early as Thursday morning, said Tim Sedlock of the National Weather Service forecast office in Melbourne.

Here's what you need to know about tropical storms and how to prepare for them.

What is a tropical storm? Difference between warnings and watches

A tropical storm is a tropical cyclone with maximum sustained surface winds in the range of 63–127 km/h, according to the National Weather Service.

• Tropical Storm Warning: Tropical storm conditions with sustained winds of 39-79 mph (63-127 km/h) are expected in your area within the next 36 hours.
• Tropical Storm Warning: Tropical storm conditions with sustained winds of 63–127 km/h are possible in the indicated area within 48 hours.
• Atlantic hurricane season: June 1st to November 30th, the most active period lasts from mid-August to mid-October and reaches its peak on September 10th.