THE UNITED STATES IS preparing for a major hurricane as Hurricane Florence strengthens over the Atlantic Ocean and makes it way toward the East Coast.

According to the National Hurricane Center, as of Monday morning, Hurricane Florence had maximum sustained winds of 105 mph, making it a Category 2 hurricane. The NHC said the storm is moving northwestward and its movement will increase in speed over the next few days. The storm is "expected to become a major hurricane very soon."

Hurricane Florence is forecasted to move between Bermuda and the Bahamas Tuesday and Wednesday before approaching the southeastern coast of the United States on Thursday.

"Rapid strengthening is forecast, and Florence is forecast to become a major hurricane this morning and is expected to remain an extremely dangerous major hurricane through Thursday," the NHC said.

The Center warned about potentially "life-threatening surf and rip current conditions" for parts of Bermuda and the U.S. East Coast. It also warned of storm surges and flooding from excessive rainfall.

Although an exact path is unknown, the NHC tweeted Monday that "the coast and inland from South Carolina into the mid-Atlantic region should closely monitor the progress of Florence."

The National Weather Service urged residents in the storm's path to get prepared, even those who don't live on the coast.

Once Hurricane Florence dissipates, there may not be much time to rest, as Hurricane Isaac is right behind it. However, Isaac is forecasted to miss the mainland United States and track over Puerto Rico and parts of the Dominican Republic.