Due to an area of disturbed weather in the western Gulf of Mexico, rain and wind will be expected across Southwest Florida over the next few days.

Todd Barron, meteorologist from the National Weather Service out of Tampa, said there may be 2 to 4 inches of rain over the next couple of days that may cause some minor flooding across low lining areas.

Those living near the shore will experience some pretty breezy weather off the water, according to Barron. He said 15-20 mph winds may be experienced for those living further inland with gust up to 30 miles per hour.

Along the coast, winds ranging from 20-25 mph are expected with possible gusts up to 35 mph.

“It will be a little breezy and there will be some rain,” Barron said about the conditions through Wednesday.

The American Red Cross will be monitoring the weather patterns through Wednesday in Lee County.

“The Red Cross is ready and prepared as always,” Heidi Ruster, CEO of Florida’s Southern Gulf Coast Region of the Red Cross, said in a prepared statement. “(Preparedness) is very important. It’s each individual’s responsibility. The better prepared you are, the less stress you’ll have. You’ll have the capability to respond to a disaster much more effectively.”

Residents are encouraged to stay tuned to possible flood warnings; be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice; head to higher ground if a flood or flash flood is expected in their area; stay away from floodwaters, especially if the water is above the ankles; drive in the opposite direction if faced with flooded waters; and keep children out of the water.