Hurricane Idalia is a major hurricane that is threatening Florida. The storm is expected to make landfall on Wednesday afternoon or evening along the state’s Gulf Coast.
Idalia is the seventh named storm of the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season. It formed as a tropical storm on Monday morning in the eastern Caribbean Sea. The storm quickly strengthened into a hurricane and then a major hurricane on Tuesday.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued a hurricane warning for the entire Florida Gulf Coast, from Sarasota County to Franklin County. A tropical storm warning is in effect for the Florida Panhandle from Escambia County to Walton County.
The NHC is forecasting that Idalia will make landfall as a major hurricane with sustained winds of 115 mph. The storm could also bring up to 10 inches of rain to parts of Florida.
Tips to Take Into Account
Here are some tips to take into account as Hurricane Idalia approaches Florida:
- Stay informed. Monitor the storm’s progress and listen to local news and weather reports for the latest updates.
- Make an evacuation plan. If you are in an area that is under a mandatory evacuation order, evacuate early. If you are not under a mandatory evacuation order, you should still consider evacuating if you live in a flood-prone area or if you have concerns about your home’s ability to withstand the storm.
- Secure your home. Bring in loose outdoor objects, board up windows, and secure your roof.
- Stock up on supplies. Make sure you have enough food, water, and other essentials to last for at least three days.
- Have a plan for your pets. If you are evacuating, make sure you have a plan for your pets. You may need to take them with you or board them with a friend or family member.
- Stay safe. If you must go outside, use caution and avoid downed power lines and other hazards.
Additional Tips for Staying Safe
Here are some additional tips for staying safe during Hurricane Idalia:
- If you are staying home, stay in the interior of your home away from windows and doors.
- If you are evacuating, do so early and allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
- If you are driving, avoid flooded areas and use caution on downed power lines.
- If you are stranded in your car, stay in your car and call for help.
- If you are caught in a flood, move to higher ground immediately.
- If you are in a tornado, take shelter in an interior room on the lowest level of your home.
Hurricane Idalia is a serious storm and it is important to take precautions to stay safe. By following these tips, you can help to ensure that you and your family stay safe during the storm.
Here are some additional resources that may be helpful:
- National Hurricane Center: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
- Federal Emergency Management Agency: https://www.fema.gov/
- Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org/
- Ready.gov: https://www.ready.gov/
Stay safe and stay informed.
