Hurricane Idalia Set to Strike Florida’s Gulf Coast
Hurricane Idalia is predicted to strengthen throughout Tuesday and is set to make landfall on Florida’s northern Gulf Coast on Wednesday morning. The Big Bend area of the state is expected to bear the brunt of the storm, but hazards will extend for hundreds of miles from the point of impact, causing impacts in several areas of Florida.
Many locations across Florida, southeast Georgia, and coastal South Carolina have issued hurricane warnings, tropical storm warnings, storm surge warnings, and flood watches in anticipation of the storm’s arrival. Strong winds, heavy rainfall, and potentially life-threatening storm surges of up to 15 feet are expected.
Tampa Bay, located on Florida’s west coast, remains under a hurricane warning. The area is at risk of experiencing a life-threatening storm surge, as well as flooding, wind damage, and the formation of tornadoes. The worst impacts are forecasted to occur on Tuesday evening through Wednesday.
The storm surge in Tampa Bay may rise 4 to 7 feet above normally dry land on Tuesday night and Wednesday, particularly if it coincides with high tide. Flood watches are also in effect due to the potential for 4 to 8 inches of rain, with locally heavier amounts possible. The National Weather Service forecasts sustained winds of 30 to 40 mph, with gusts up to 70 mph.
Tallahassee, the state capital, is also under a hurricane warning. The city is at risk of flooding and destructive winds, with the possibility of tornadoes. The worst impacts are expected to occur on Tuesday night through Wednesday evening.
Although Tallahassee is located further inland, coastal areas to the south, such as Saint Marks and Panacea, may experience a storm surge of 6 to 9 feet above normally dry ground early Wednesday morning through Wednesday evening.
Sarasota, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is under a storm surge warning, tropical storm warning, and a hurricane watch. Storm surge impacts have already begun, with the worst expected on Tuesday night through Wednesday evening. Strong winds, flooding rain, and tornadoes are also possible in the area.
Gainesville, located in northern Florida, remains under a hurricane warning. The greatest threats are strong winds and flooding rain, with the possibility of tornadoes. The worst impacts are expected on Tuesday night through Wednesday evening.
Jacksonville, situated on the northeast coast of Florida, is under a tropical storm warning. The worst conditions, including strong winds, flooding rain, and possible tornadoes, are anticipated to occur on Tuesday night through Wednesday evening.
Savannah, located in Georgia, is under a tropical storm warning and a storm surge watch. The area faces risks of strong winds, rainfall, and coastal flooding, with the worst impacts expected on Wednesday morning through early Thursday morning.
Flooding, power outages, and structural damage are expected as a result of Hurricane Idalia. Areas where wind gusts reach 70 mph may experience damage to buildings, while areas with gusts over 110 mph could see complete destruction of mobile homes and widespread power outages. Heavy rain may cause rivers and streams to overflow, leading to flooding in low-lying areas. Coastal areas can expect significant storm surge, potentially damaging or washing away buildings.
Residents in the affected areas are urged to take necessary precautions and follow the guidance of local authorities. It is important to stay updated on the latest weather forecasts and be prepared for any changes in the track or intensity of the storm.