Go to: August 24 • 11 a.m.: The tropical depression strengthens into Tropical Storm Katrina, moving through the central Bahamas toward Florida with 45 mph (75 kph) winds. • Residents on the southeastern coast of Florida are put under a tropical storm watch. Broward and Palm Beach counties announce they will open shelters and begin evacuating barrier islands the next day. Palm Beach officials declare a state of emergency.