South Georgians were bracing for heavy rains that could lead to flooding as Tropical Storm Andrea gained strength during its approach to the state.

Parts of southeast Georgia -- including Brunswick, Savannah, Valdosta and Waycross -- were under a tropical storm warning Thursday morning. The storm was expected to track northeast over the area through Thursday night.

Forecasters at the National Weather Service said heavy rains and flooding will be the main threats in Georgia, but isolated tornadoes are also possible.

Meanwhile, a flash flood watch was expanded early Thursday to include all of southwest and south central Georgia and part of northeast Georgia. That area includes Albany, Macon, Dublin, Vidalia, Statesboro and Augusta.

Forecasters said isolated areas in Florida and southeastern Georgia could get 8 inches of rain.

Tags: hurricanes, tropical storms, severe weather, tropical storm Andrea