Florida on hurricane alert

AFTER pelting Haiti and the Dominican Republic with torrential rains and floods that killed at least four people, Tropical Storm Fay lashed south-eastern Cuba with downpours and heavy winds yesterday.

It was expected to churn its way over the centre of the island before heading toward Florida.

Forecasters said Fay was expected to gain force yesterday and could be near hurricane strength when it zeroes in on Florida, where officials have declared a state of emergency.