With Rita expected to send thousands of people fleeing today from the Florida Keys, state officials said they will be keeping an eye on any potential price gouging, according to Local 6 News partner Florida Today.

The warning came from Attorney General Charlie Crist's office even as Gov. Jeb Bush issued an official emergency declaration in anticipation of the storm's trek just south of the state.

Crist's office has already activated a toll-free number for residents, visitors and tourists to report any storm-related instances of price gouging involving gasoline, hotel lodging, and food, Florida Today reported.

"As we prepare for yet another storm, price gougers need to beware that price gouging will not be tolerated," said Crist in a statement released late Sunday.

"We are prepared and we will prosecute."

State law prohibits extreme jumps in prices during emergency declarations. The law also states that commodities such as gasoline cannot deviate greatly from the average price set 30 days before a declaration unless dictated by additional costs to the seller.

Violators can face up to $1,000 per violation or up to $25,000 for multiple violations within a 24-hour period.

Any consumer reporting price gouging can contact the Attorney General's Office at 1-866-966-7226.