Tropical Storm Fay may become hurricane Tuesday

MIAMI, Florida (CNN) - Tropical Storm Fay continued north Monday and is expected to near hurricane strength as it smacks the southwestern coast of Florida Tuesday, the National Hurricane Center said.

The center of Tropical Storm Fay made landfall over Key West, Florida, Monday afternoon.

"Preparations to protect life and property should be rushed to completion," the NHC said.

A hurricane warning was in effect for the southwestern coast of Florida from Flamingo to Anna Maria Island - meaning hurricane conditions are expected within the next 24 hours.