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.
What are the specific factors contributing to the intensification of Idalia from a tropical storm to a Category 2 hurricane as it approaches the Gulf Coast of Florida?
Ricane Center (NHC). Idalia, currently a tropical storm, is intensifying and is predicted to reach Category 2 hurricane status as it moves closer to the Gulf Coast of Florida on Tuesday, as per the National Hurricane Center (NHC).
Stay safe everyone! Make sure to stock up on supplies and prepare for any potential impacts.