GULFPORT, Fla. — Flooding is a regular issue in the Gulfport area.

But early Wednesday, as Hurricane Ian approached the Florida coast, the opposite occured as water was sucked out of the bay in Gulfport. 

"It's the lowest I've seen it since Irma," said Gulfport Mayor Sam Henderson. "But when it comes back, it's going to come back fast."  

This was happening Wednesday morning as wind reached tropical storm strength in parts of Pinellas County and coastal cities like Gulfport are expecting flooding rains. 

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