Tropical Storm Idalia is expected to strengthen into a Category 2 hurricane as it approaches Florida’s Gulf Coast on Tuesday, according to the National Hurricane Center. Forecasters are warning that this will be a “very significant and impactful hurricane.” The storm is predicted to bring winds of up to 100 miles per hour.
Officials have issued a hurricane watch for a large section of western Florida, including Tampa Bay, and a tropical storm watch for the Gulf Coast south of Englewood. A storm surge watch is also in effect for certain areas. The Florida Division of Emergency Management has advised residents to keep their gas tanks at least halfway full in case of evacuation orders.
Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency in 33 counties and has urged residents to prepare for power outages. The state has mobilized 1,100 members of the National Guard and has high-water vehicles and aircraft ready for rescue efforts. Electric companies will have workers on standby.
The storm is also expected to bring heavy rains to Georgia and the Carolinas. Parts of the west coast of Florida, the Florida Panhandle, and southern Georgia could see up to six inches of rain, with isolated totals of 10 inches. The Carolinas may also experience heavy rainfall, leading to flash flooding and landslides.
Cuba has issued a hurricane warning for Pinar Del Rio, and a tropical storm warning for the Isle of Youth. The Dry Tortugas islands and Lower Florida Keys West are under a tropical storm warning and watch, respectively.
The combination of the tide and storm surge could bring water levels up to 11 feet in some parts of the Florida coast. Residents are advised to stay updated on the storm’s progress and follow any evacuation orders.
The Atlantic hurricane season began on June 1 and runs through November 30. In recent years, Florida’s west coast has experienced several major hurricanes, including Hurricane Ian in 2022 and Hurricane Michael in 2018.
How can residents and visitors in the region stay updated with the latest forecasts and instructions from local authorities regarding the approaching storm
Nal Hurricane Center. The storm, currently located in the Gulf of Mexico, has been gaining strength and is predicted to intensify further over the next couple of days. As it moves closer to Florida’s Gulf Coast, experts estimate that it will reach Category 2 hurricane status.
The NHC is closely monitoring the storm’s progress and providing regular updates to residents in the potential impact area. They have urged people in the region to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
While the exact path of the storm is still uncertain, it is expected to make landfall along the Florida Gulf Coast on Tuesday. If it reaches Category 2 status as predicted, it will bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and a significant storm surge to the affected areas.
Residents and visitors are advised to stay updated with the latest forecasts and follow instructions from local authorities. Preparations for a possible hurricane landfall should include securing loose objects, stocking up on supplies, and having an evacuation plan if necessary.
It is crucial for individuals in the potential impact zone to take this threat seriously and be prepared for possible disruptions. The NHC will continue to monitor the storm’s progress and issue advisories as needed.
As Tropical Storm Idalia approaches the Florida Gulf Coast, it is essential for everyone to stay informed and prioritize their safety during this potentially dangerous weather event.
Stay safe, Floridians! Stock up on supplies and follow any evacuation orders.
Praying for everyone’s safety and hoping the storm weakens before it reaches land.