People across the US are no doubt gearing up for Fourth of July weekend, a time filled with barbecues, fireworks, and rivers of beer flowing freely.

Unfortunately, it looks like Mother Nature may be looking to rain on quite a few parades.

Literally.

The first big storm of the Atlantic hurricane season is moving steadily closer to Florida. Tropical storm Arthur could pose a threat in the near future.

For now, those in the potential path of Arthur are keeping an eye on the storm while continuing to make preparations for the upcoming holiday.

As of Tuesday afternoon, Arthur was 90 miles off the coast of Cape Canaveral, Florida. The storm has sustained winds of nearly 40 mph. Arthur is approaching the south eastern coastline at a speed of about five mph.

Tropical storm Arthur forms, forecast to become hurricane on ride up East Coast July 2-5: http://t.co/Jk8spzkvx2 pic.twitter.com/Vo55FKaAQK

— Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) July 1, 2014

With summer in full swing, it’s not too surprising to find the beaches crowded. Everything is fine so long as beachgoers stay ashore. But as winds pick up and waves rise, it may not be a good idea to go swimming.

Here is the 4 PM update on Tropical Storm Arthur. Could become a hurricane on Thu. Afternoon off Carolina Coast. pic.twitter.com/j6kMjukQUZ

— WWL-TV (@WWLTV) July 1, 2014

A flag system is used in order to warn beach visitors about the safety of swimming as wind and waves turn rough.

Red flags signify rough surf, and in those instances swimmers should only get into the water in areas where there is a lifeguard nearby.

A red flag was flying at Daytona Beach as a dozen people were rescued from the water by lifeguards.

Two swimmers deciding to brave the surf this evening #TropicalStormArthur #junobeach pic.twitter.com/FZetkCGvCc

— Taylor Grenda (@wpbf_Taylor) July 1, 2014

It’s expected that the approaching tropical storm will bring with it tremendous downpours, a swelling surf, and potential rip tides. In other areas, there is the possibility that tornadoes could touch down.

It’s strongly suggested that those living or vacationing on the east coast of the United States (from Florida to northern Virginia at present) watch out for Arthur. It’s no doubt annoying that bad weather could ruin one’s holiday, but better safe than sorry!

Image via Wikimedia Commons