Edouard's Winds Pick up

GALVESTON, Texas (AP) - Tropical Storm Edouard is getting a little stronger, as it closes in on the Texas Gulf Coast.

Top sustained winds are now about 65 miles an hour, with higher gusts.

Forecasters say Edouard could be approaching hurricane strength by the time the center of the storm comes ashore, probably around midday.

Rain and tropical storm force winds are spreading across coastal Louisiana and winds and surf have picked up in Galveston, Texas.

This is the height of the vacation season in Galveston but some tourists seem willing to stay put and ride out the storm, as long as officials don't order an evacuation.

Governor Rick Perry has issued a disaster declaration for 17 Texas counties that could be in Edouard's path.

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