WMass volunteers sent to Florida

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Tropical Storm Isaac continues to move through the Caribbean. If the storm stays on its current projected track, Isaac could bring heavy rain and gusts of wind to Tampa, Florda early next week.

And four people from western Massachusetts flew to Florida on Friday to help the residents there prepare.

The storm moved through the Dominican Republic on Friday with heavy surf, wind and rain.

By the time it reaches the Gulf of Mexico, forecasters say the storm might gain hurricane status.

Brenda Brouillette, Director of Regional Emergency Services of the Red Cross Pioneer Valley Chapter told 22News, western Mass. volunteers will help set up emergency shelters and help provide food.

Brouillette said, having the volunteers there a few days in advance is crucial to their operation.

“As soon as the disaster passes, we can hit the ground running,” she said. “We are able, ready, and we have other resources and human to be able to respond immediately.”

There's also a hurricane app you can download to see where the storm is headed.

To download the app, visit the iTunes or Google Play app stores or call **REDCROSS (**73327677) from your mobile phone.