President Barack Obama declares state of emergency in Florida as potentially catastrophic Hurricane Matthew approaches.

President Barack Obama declares state of emergency in Florida as potentially catastrophic Hurricane Matthew approaches.

Mayor:Evacuation lane reversal was a wise move.

Forecasters say Hurricane Matthew has gained new muscle over the Bahamas and they are also expanding the hurricane warning area further up the Southeast Atlantic seacoast from Florida into Georgia.

As of 9:30 a.m. Thursday, the southern coast of South Carolina was under a Hurricane Warning.

Hurricane Matthew to hit Florida.

Tracking Hurricane Matthew.

Matthew stronger,hurricane warning area expands.

Forecasters say Hurricane Matthew has gained new muscle over the Bahamas and they are also expanding the hurricane warning area further up the Southeast Atlantic seacoast from Florida into Georgia.

As of 9:30 a.m. Thursday, the southern coast of South Carolina was under a Hurricane Warning.

Winds: Tropical storm force winds likely, hurricane force gusts possible along the coast

Rain: 8-14"

Storm Surge: Possible 4-8'

Tornado Risk: Very low

Marine: Very rough surf, high waves & dangerous rip currents

The newly expanded hurricane watch extends from the Altamaha Sound in Georgia up the coast to the South Santee River in South Carolina.