Powerful storm threatens the United States: Danger is approaching, evacuations ordered VIDEO

Meteorologists are warning of strong winds, heavy rainfall, flooding and a dangerous storm surge, the Associated Press (AP) reports.

According to the U.S. National Hurricane Center, the storm is located about 145 kilometres south of Pensacola, Florida, with maximum sustained winds of around 193 kilometres per hour.

Category 3 hurricanes are considered major storms and can cause devastating damage.

Evacuations ordered, flights cancelled

Meteorologists warn that sea levels could rise by between 1.8 and 2.7 metres, while heavy rainfall and possible flooding are expected in some parts of the southern United States.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has warned residents of possible power outages, gasoline shortages, and the closure of bridges and highways.

Several counties in Alabama and Florida have ordered mandatory evacuations, while movement restrictions have also been imposed in some areas.

Numerous flights have been cancelled at several airports in northwestern Florida due to the hurricane. U.S. President Donald Trump also cancelled his planned trip to attend a college football game in Alabama, saying he did not want to disrupt emergency response operations.

Storm expected to weaken

Forecasts indicate that Isaias is expected to weaken after making landfall and be downgraded to a tropical storm by Saturday afternoon. However, heavy rainfall is expected to continue throughout the weekend across an area stretching from southern Alabama to southwestern Georgia.

Oil industry experts estimate that the hurricane will bypass the largest oil facilities along the Gulf Coast. However, they warn that fuel prices could rise if power outages force refineries to suspend operations.