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Hurricane Idalia path and timeline: Maps show where the storm is heading and when

By Emily Mae Czachor

Updated on: August 30, 2023 / 10:42 PM EDT / CBS News

Update: Hurricane Idalia made landfall Wednesday morning. Read the latest here . 

Hurricane Idalia briefly strengthened into an extremely dangerous Category 4 over the Gulf of Mexico early Wednesday but then weakened slightly back to a Category 3 before making landfall at Keaton Beach in the Big Bend region of Florida, the National Hurricane Center said. It warned the storm was bringing "catastrophic" storm surge and "destructive winds."

The center emphasized that the "change in wind speed does not diminish the threat of catastrophic storm surge and damaging winds," the consequences of which may be exacerbated by a concurrent "king tide."  

Idalia was downgraded to a Category 1 and then to a tropical storm later in the day as its wind speeds declined. Hurricane warnings were issued for parts of Georgia and South Carolina as Idalia continued to travel along its projected path up the southeast coast of the U.S., while Florida communities grappled with infrastructure damage, shuttered airports and widespread power outages .

Storm surge in some areas was expected to reach 16 feet.

"That level of storm surge is life threatening," Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said at an early morning briefing, adding, "There will be impacts far behind the eye wall, and those will extend to places like Tallahassee" and other parts of northeast Florida.

The storm made landfall with maximum sustained winds of 125 miles per hour. Wind speeds of 111 mph to 129 mph make it a Category 3 , which is considered a major storm capable of "devastating damage," the hurricane center says.

"In this part of Florida, particularly the Big Bend coast, we haven't seen a hurricane landfall of this intensity in many, many, many years," Michael Brennan, director of the National Hurricane Center, told "CBS Mornings" on Wednesday.

He said the region's shallow continental shelf adds to the storm's impact, with the hurricane's circulation pushing water inland, which is leading to catastrophic storm surge.

"We're gonna see, you know, not just the storm surge but potential for damaging winds extending well inland all the way across portions of north Florida, into southern Georgia, into places like Savannah, Hilton Head," Brennan said. "We have hurricane warnings in effect for the fast-moving hurricane. It's going to bring those winds really far inland today and tonight."

Idalia's path was expected to impact a wide central portion of Florida before moving along the Georgia and Carolina coastline Wednesday into Thursday.

At a briefing Tuesday evening, Gov. DeSantis urged people in the evacuation zone to leave immediately.

"If you stay hunkered down tonight, it's going to be too nasty tomorrow morning to be able to do it," he said. 

"If you do choose to stay in one of the evacuation zones, first responders will not be able to get you until after the storm has passed."

Hurricane Idalia's location and warnings

Idalia spent several days churning toward the Florida coast from the Gulf of Mexico. As the storm intensified, meteorologists warned that it could bring "catastrophic" storm surge and "destructive winds" to the Big Bend region as it moved over land.

"While Idalia should weaken after landfall," the center continued, "it is likely to still be a hurricane while moving across southern Georgia, and near the coast of Georgia or southern South Carolina late today. Idalia should emerge off the southeastern United States coast early on Thursday and move eastward through late week."

On Facebook early Wednesday, Cedar Key resident Michael Presley Bobbitt posted video of water coming up to his home and said, "The water just keeps coming. Pray for Cedar Key."

The water just keeps coming. Pray for Cedar key. Posted by Michael Presley Bobbitt on  Wednesday, August 30, 2023

CBS News senior weather and climate producer David Parkinson noted Tuesday that the massive storm surge expected to accompany Idalia's arrival on land "is the primary threat with this storm."

"There is likely a level of people being caught off guard farther south as the storm is just skirting by," he said. "The storm surge may go as far as US19 inland, so there's a lot of area covered by that, even if the coast isn't populated like near Naples. No one alive in these areas has seen flooding this bad there if it hits max potential."

Gulf Coast communities were under a range of severe weather advisories, from hurricane and tropical storm warnings and watches to storm surge warnings and watches, but the National Weather Service Tallahassee said the tropical storm and hurricane warnings had been canceled as of about 5 p.m. Wednesday, while concerns remained about "lingering coastal flooding, especially at high tides."

The hurricane center had warned that storm surge could get as high as 16 feet in the area from the Wakulla/Jefferson County line in Florida and as high as 6 feet in Tampa Bay.

DeSantis declared a state of emergency in 49 counties and the state mobilized more than 5,500 National Guard members to respond to the storm. Between 30,000 and 40,000 electricity workers would be on hand to restore power after the storm hits, the governor said. 

Evacuation orders or recommendations were posted in 28 counties and dozens of school districts across Florida had suspended classes. 

Meanwhile, Hurricane Franklin, to the east over the Atlantic, was churning on a track that's expected to keep it off the East Coast.

Franklin was a major Category 3 hurricane early Wednesday packing 115 mph sustained winds and bringing "life-threatening surf and rip currents" along the East Coast and was forecast to bring tropical storm conditions to Bermuda starting later on Wednesday, the hurricane center said.

Meteorologists rate hurricanes according to the Saffir-Simpson Wind Scale , categorizing storms that fall within Categories 3, 4 or 5 as "major" hurricanes capable of causing "significant loss of life and damage," according to the National Hurricane Center. The categories are based on a hurricane's maximum sustained wind speeds.

Where did Hurricane Idalia hit?

Idalia made landfall Wednesday morning in the Big Bend region, which is where the Florida peninsula meets the panhandle. Storm surge along the coast there was forecast to reach 12 to 16 feet, worsening through the day as the tide rises.

Storm surge is  a rise in water levels  caused by hurricane-force winds that push water toward shore and over areas of land that are normally dry, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. This phenomenon is considered the greatest threat to life during a hurricane.

In Crystal River, north of Tampa, city manager Doug Baber warned about the threat of storm surge — the worst of which isn't expected until high tide later on Wednesday.

"The surge is going to be pushing in later today. The biggest part of the surge is going to be around 4:30 ... due to the high tide," he told "CBS Mornings" Wednesday, warning people against having a false sense of confidence that they can go out on the roads before the surge arrives.  

Forecasters also warned that "areas of flash and urban flooding, some of which may be locally significant, are expected across portions of the west coast of Florida, the Florida Panhandle, and southern Georgia Tuesday into Wednesday, spreading into portions of the eastern Carolinas Wednesday into Thursday."

Ahead of the storm, officials had urged people living in low-lying coastal areas along the Gulf, many of whom were under evacuation notices, to move to higher ground.

"You run from the water and you hide from the wind. If you're there in that storm surge, you're putting your life in jeopardy when it gets to be that high," Gov. DeSantis said. 

A major hurricane has never entered the Apalachee Bay, located just south of Tallahassee where the Florida peninsula meets the mainland U.S., said the city's National Weather Service branch, which called the potential arrival of Idalia  "unprecedented."

"Hurricane Idalia will likely be an unprecedented event for many locations in the Florida Big Bend. Looking back through recorded history, NO major hurricanes have ever moved through the Apalachee Bay. When you try to compare this storm to others, DON'T. No one has seen this," reads a message posed to the front page of the website for NWS Tallahassee.

As Idalia intensified and approached on Tuesday, DeSantis told Florida residents: "There's a huge number of counties that are going to feel impacts from this." He referenced updated computer models from the National Hurricane Center that indicated the storm could impact inland areas as well, including Columbia County and Madison County, which sit near Florida's border with Georgia, between Tallahassee and Jacksonville.

A hurricane warning means that hurricane conditions are expected somewhere within the boundaries of the warning area, while a hurricane watch means those conditions are possible, according to the National Hurricane Center. Forecasters urge people in areas under hurricane warnings to prepare for the onset of conditions within the next 12 to 24 hours. People living in areas placed under storm surge watches should prepare for the "possibility of life-threatening inundation, from rising water moving inland from the coastline" over the next 48 hours, the hurricane center said.

There is a possibility of strong and potentially damaging wind gusts from Idalia that could "extend well eastward from the storm's center" once it makes landfall in Florida, the weather service said. Meteorologists added that torrential downpours could also happen in eastern parts of the state, which may be subject to increasing tornado threats as well.

Map of Hurricane Idalia's projected path

Meteorologists forecast a northeastern path for Idalia, tracking over the Gulf of Mexico toward the northwest coast of Florida throughout Tuesday and into Wednesday.

After making landfall along Florida's Gulf Coast, Idalia continued across northern Florida and coastal Georgia and into South Carolina by Wednesday night. It was expected to continue moving up the coast of the Carolinas through Thursday before moving out into the Atlantic, decreasing in strength as it travels.

Will Idalia and Franklin hit Florida at the same time?

Hurricane Franklin is not expected to hit Florida, but it will cause rough surf conditions and rip currents. Officials haven't issued any forecasts suggesting that Franklin will make landfall anywhere along the East Coast.

An incoming "long-period swell" in the Atlantic caused by Hurricane Franklin will make the coast susceptible to "high seas, rough surf, an increase in life-threatening rip currents, and beach erosion during high tides during Tuesday and Wednesday," according to the hurricane center. 

• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
• National Weather Service
• Tropical Storm

Emily Mae Czachor is a reporter and news editor at CBSNews.com. She covers breaking news, often focusing on crime and extreme weather. Emily Mae has previously written for outlets including the Los Angeles Times, BuzzFeed and Newsweek.

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What to do if you have a trip planned for Florida as Hurricane Idalia takes aim

Hurricane Idalia made landfall in Florida early Wednesday, which is already causing wind damage, flooding and power outages as it moves inland.

The storm, which was strengthening Tuesday after skirting western Cuba on Monday, approached Florida as a Category 3 storm. Landfall has come along the state's Gulf Coast between Tallahassee and Tampa. Still, the interior of the state has also been affected, with flooding and wind damage possible for much of central and northern Florida — already more than 270,000 Florida residents are without power. As the storm moves north toward Georgia and the Carolinas, tornado warnings could be in place for those areas through the end of the week.

While Hurricane Idalia's arrival comes as the typical hurricane season increases the risk of storms, summer is a popular time for vacationers to visit Florida's theme parks and beaches as well as to depart on cruises. With so many travelers visiting Florida daily, TPG compiled a guide on what you should do if you have travel planned to Florida this week.

Is it safe to travel to Florida?

While Florida's tourist marketing corporation, known as Visit Florida, has not released an advisory against traveling to Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis did declare a state of emergency in 46 of 47 Florida counties. Florida's Gulf Coast is expected to be most affected by Hurricane Idalia, but DeSantis warned that the storm could affect low-lying areas beyond where the storm makes landfall.

"This is likely going to cut across the interior of the state," DeSantis said in a press conference Monday.

Those in Florida can expect heavy rain and winds as high as 115 miles per hour. The National Hurricane Center described Hurricane Idalia as having a "Life-Threatening Storm Surge" with "Dangerous Winds." Residents in the path of the hurricane should also be prepared to lose power, DeSantis said at the press conference.

"If you're in a vulnerable area, you evacuate to higher ground in a safe structure," DeSantis said at the press conference, offering advice to residents that visitors may also want to heed if they've not left before the storm.

In response to the hurricane, Florida officials have also deployed emergency utility crews and 2,500 Florida National Guard members who will bring planes and high-rescue water vehicles, according to Politico .

Despite the lack of travel advisories, travelers may want to reconsider travel to Florida since Hurricane Idalia is expected to have potentially severe conditions once it makes landfall Wednesday. More advisories and evacuation orders are possible as the storm nears.

Airlines allowing changes to Florida flights

Most major U.S. airlines have posted advisories for travel to Florida and other portions of the Southeastern U.S. that may be affected by heavy rain from Hurricane Idalia. Check your airline's website to see which flights have been affected.

Here's a roundup of the travel advisories from the major U.S. airlines as of midday Tuesday:

American Airlines

Change fees for flights to the following cities are waived for travel taking place between Aug. 28 and Aug. 31:

• Charleston, South Carolina
• Daytona Beach, Florida
• Fort Myers, Florida
• Hilton Head, South Carolina
• Jacksonville, Florida
• Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
• Orlando, Florida
• Sarasota/Bradenton, Florida
• Savannah, Georgia
• Tampa, Florida

American will also waive the change fees for basic economy and for travelers who can fly from Aug. 28 to Sept. 4. Customers cannot change their origin city or destination if they want to qualify for the fee waiver.

Southwest Airlines

Customers flying to the following cities from Aug. 28 to Aug. 31 may reschedule their flights at no additional cost:

• Destin/Fort Walton Beach, Florida
• Panama City Beach, Florida
• Pensacola, Florida
• Sarasota, Florida
• Savannah/Hilton Head, Georgia

Southwest is also allowing customers scheduled to travel to and from Tampa to reschedule to one of the following different cities without any additional charges:

• Fort Lauderdale, Florida
• Miami, Florida
• West Palm Beach, Florida

JetBlue is issuing change fee waivers and waiving fare differences for flights booked to the following cities from Aug. 29 to Aug. 30:

Customers can rebook travel until Sept. 2, and to qualify for the waivers, the original travel dates must have been booked by Aug. 28.

Delta Air Lines

Delta is waiving fare differences for any travel booked between Aug. 28 and Aug. 31 to the following cities until Sept. 3:

• Brunswick, Georgia
• Columbus, Georgia
• Gainesville, Florida
• Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
• Key West, Florida
• Panama City, Florida
• Tallahassee, Florida
• Valdosta, Georgia

However, for any rescheduled travel booked after Sept. 3, Delta will waive the change fee, but a fare difference may still apply. If customers choose not to rebook travel, they may cancel their flight and apply the unused fare to a different flight booked within a year of when the original ticket was issued. Keep in mind that a fare difference may still apply if you decide to cancel your current flight and rebook a new one.

United Airlines

For tickets purchased by Aug. 27 with travel dates from Aug. 28 to Aug. 31 to one of the following cities, United will waive change fees and fare differences for rescheduled flights that take place between Aug. 27 and Sept. 4:

If you reschedule your travel to a different destination, United will still waive the change fees, but a fare difference may still apply.

Spirit Airlines

For any flights to the following list of cities with travel dates from Aug. 29 to Aug. 31, Spirit is waiving fare differences and change fees through Sept. 6:

Any flights rescheduled after Sept. 6 may have a fare difference; however, change fees will still be waived.

Possible airport closures

In preparation for Hurricane Idalia, some airports may suspend operations. For example, Tampa International Airport (TPA) announced Monday on X, formerly known as Twitter, that it would close starting at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday for the storm. So far, the airports in Charleston, South Carolina; Fort Lauderdale; Miami; and Orlando have not announced any closures.

Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) and St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE), both of which sit on Florida's Gulf coast along with Tampa, also announced airport closures on Tuesday. SRQ plans to close at 7 p.m. on Tuesday and reopen at 8 a.m. the next day. Starting at 3 p.m. Tuesday, PIE will be closed and reopen at 3 p.m. on Wednesday.

Tallahassee International Airport (TLH) also suspended operations at 11 a.m. on Tuesday. The airport in Florida's capital is located on the Big Bend, an area of the state that is expected to see widespread damage and flooding from Hurricane Idalia with up to 10 to 15 feet in storm surge, according to the National Hurricane Center .

Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV) is also closed until 5 p.m. Wednesday, with no flights operating until the evening. Charleston International Airport (CHS) also announced on Wednesday that it would close at 6 p.m. and reopen at 8 a.m. on Thursday.

What to do if you have a hotel booked in Florida

So far, none of the major hotel chains have announced any closures on their websites, but some smaller chains are providing discounted storm rates to Florida residents seeking shelter. Orlando area-based chain Rosen Hotels is offering "distress rates" starting at $69 a night to Florida residents looking to evacuate inland.

If you do happen to have a hotel booked, be sure to check your hotel's cancellation policies, as they may vary by each individual hotel, and hotel chains may revise cancellation policies in light of Hurricane Idalia. You can call a hotel's 1-800 number to either cancel or reschedule your stay. Florida's Division of Emergency Management has a list of the evacuation orders for each county — if you have a hotel booked in an area that is expected to be heavily affected by the storm, you may have already received some communication from the hotel about your stay.

A Hilton spokesperson told TPG:

Hilton continues to monitor the progress of Hurricane Idalia. The safety and security of our guests and Team Members is always our top priority. Hilton properties in the storm's projected path have implemented their hurricane preparedness plans and remain in close contact with local authorities and tourism partners.

For guests whose travel plans are being affected by Hurricane Idalia, modification and cancellation penalties may be waived for reservations arriving August 28, 2023 through September 4, 2023, for guests traveling to, from, or through Florida, Georgia and South Carolina. Guests are encouraged to visit Hilton.com or contact 1-800-HILTONS for the latest information on specific properties. For information regarding Hurricane Idalia please visit the National Hurricane Center website at www.nhc.noaa.gov .

An IHG spokesperson told TPG that the chain is waiving cancellation fees for guests who booked hotels in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina. Hotels in those areas are also required to welcome pets without any additional charges, the spokesperson added.

"As Hurricane Idalia continues to progress, we are ensuring that IHG branded hotels are doing everything in their power to provide the highest level of hospitality for those seeking relief and comfort," the IHG spokesperson said in a statement.

Marriot is monitoring the hurricane and enacted its storm protocols in Florida, with plans in place for evacuations and possible hotel closures, a Marriott spokesperson told TPG.

For bookings through a third-party travel agency or online aggregator like Expedia, be sure to check the cancellation policy. Rather than directly calling the hotel, you'd have to call the third-party site, since it owns your reservation prior to traveling.

Airbnb has an "extenuating circumstances" policy for natural disasters; however, it does not cover hurricanes that occur during Florida's hurricane season because they are classified as foreseeable events. Typically, Airbnb hosts list the cancellation policy when you book, so the policy may differ for each booking.

What to do if you are visiting a Florida theme park

Based on Idalia's current path, only Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has announced any plans to close due to the hurricane. At this time, other area parks are monitoring the hurricane and allowing eligible guests to reschedule their vacations if they prefer to visit at a later date.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will close at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023, and remain closed on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2023, with plans to reopen on Thursday, Aug. 31, 2023. The park has also activated its Weather-or-Not Assurance policy , giving guests who have plans to visit during the impacted dates. You can contact Busch Gardens directly with any questions or fill out the form linked above to receive tickets to use at a later date.

Walt Disney World

Currently, Walt Disney World Resort is operating under normal conditions at its four theme parks, but Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park and both of Disney's miniature golf courses will be closed on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2023.

If you have a visit planned with check-in dates between Aug. 28, 2023, through Sept. 5, 2023, you can cancel or reschedule your visit without change or cancellation fees. Guests who already staying at Disney World whose return travel is impacted by Hurricane Idalia may be able to receive a discounted rate to extend their stay through the evening of Aug. 31, 2023, by visiting the front desk of their hotel. This policy only applies to tickets and accommodations booked directly through Disney. Learn more here .

Universal Orlando

Currently, Universal Orlando Resort is operating under normal conditions but will not offer early theme park admission for on-site hotel guests on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2023. Under the park's severe weather policy, any time a hurricane or tropical storm warning is issued or a state of emergency is declared either in the Orlando area or your place of residence, within seven days of your arrival, you can contact Universal to reschedule or cancel your vacation without any cancellation or change fees. This policy only applies to tickets and accommodations booked directly through Universal. Learn more here .

SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando will open at noon on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2023. Learn more here .

Legoland Florida

Legoland Florida is currently operating under normal conditions.

Peppa Pig Theme Park

Peppa Pig Theme Park is currently operating under normal conditions.

What to do if you have a cruise booked

Like airlines and hotels, cruise lines have their own cancellation policies, so if you have booked a cruise that is sailing to or from Florida this week, you can check the cruise line's cancellation and rebooking policies on their respective websites.

MSC Cruises has tweaked itineraries for the August 28 voyages of MSC Seaside and MSC Meraviglia, with the former extending its time in Nassau and the latter reshuffling its schedule between Miami and Nassau. Disney Cruise Line also altered Disney Fantasy's schedule for its current voyage, which swapped Cozumel, George Town and Falmouth with Tortola and St. Thomas.

Carnival Cruise Line has switched around ports for Carnival Conquest and Carnival Valor. Carnival Conquest will visit Bimini instead of Key West. The ship will also skip a call on Cozumel and add a stop in Nassau. Valor will scrap Costa Maya and, instead, add a call on Cozumel later in the week. (Due to Hurricane Franklin, the line also made changes to Carnival Legend's and Carnival Magic's schedules, with both now visiting ports in the Bahamas instead of Bermuda.)

Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Equinox also made some changes, with altered dates for planned calls on Cozumel and Grand Cayman. Further, a stop at Falmouth was added, and a visit to Bimini was scrapped

Currently, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line and Princess Cruises have no ships in the area. Royal Caribbean has not yet responded to requests for information on potential port changes.

Cruise lines do not owe you compensation if they alter your itinerary, according to the terms of the cruise contract you consent to before sailing. For any changes, you'll be refunded for any shore excursions you booked through the cruise line that were to take place in the ports you're skipping. (Check with your tour provider directly if you've booked a third-party excursion.)

TPG's guide on what happens if a cruise gets canceled is the next place to refer to for guidance if you receive notice that your cruise is canceled. You can also read up on what to expect on a cruise during hurricane season .

Will your credit card or trip insurance cover changes?

Travel insurance will cover hurricanes if you purchase it in advance. Each travel insurance agency has different policies for hurricane coverage, so check each site to see which option works best for you.

Trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance covers nonrefundable expenses like accommodations, airfare and any planned activities in the event you need to cancel your trip due to a hurricane.

There's also a type of coverage known as "cancel for any reason" coverage that can refund you around 75% of the trip cost, but it is a pricier option which may not be worth it for a trip to Florida. Allianz Travel Insurance's website says its "cancel anytime" insurance can reimburse travelers up to $16,000 in expenses.

Keep in mind that you must have booked your trip before the natural disaster starts in order to be covered. For example, Travel Guard says you can purchase insurance up until 24 hours before a hurricane is named. Once a hurricane is named, Travel Guard says it will exclude trip cancellation and interruption losses from the policy. So, if you booked a new trip today, it likely wouldn't be covered since there has already been a state of emergency declared for the hurricane.

Credit card insurance policies tend to vary, so make sure to check the benefits guide for the card you used to book your airfare or hotel for any exceptions.

TPG has a comprehensive guide on credit cards that covers trip cancellation and interruption and what might be covered in a natural disaster.

For filing a trip cancellation or interruption claim, here are some tips:

• Check your credit card's benefits guide to see if you are eligible for coverage and what the limits are.
• Call your credit card's benefits administrator or start a claim online.
• Determine which documents you need to collect.
• Submit the documents within the required timeline.

Related: 4 times your credit card's travel insurance can help with travel woes, and 7 times it won't

Bottom line

Hurricane Idalia is set to have potentially devastating impacts on Florida, so it's best to avoid traveling there if you can. With evacuation orders in place, it is important to consider canceling or rescheduling your trip.

Additional reporting by Tarah Chieffi, Ashley Kosciolek and Cameron Sperance.

Idalia updates: Damaging tornadoes, severe flooding from Florida to Carolinas

Idalia, now a tropical storm, touched down in Florida as a Category 3 hurricane.

Idalia touched down in Florida's Big Bend region on Wednesday morning as a powerful Category 3 hurricane -- the strongest hurricane to ever make landfall in the Apalachee Bay.

Idalia has since weakened into a tropical storm and moved inland over Georgia and the Carolinas.

Latest headlines:

Charleston 'dodged the bullet': mayor.

• 1 death reported in Georgia
• Gusty winds, heavy rain from eastern North Carolina to southern Virginia
• 'Significant damage' in the Big Bend region: DeSantis

Biden to visit Florida on Saturday

President Joe Biden plans to travel to Florida on Saturday to survey the damage from Hurricane Idalia, he told reporters during a visit at FEMA headquarters.

The visit was billed as one to thank FEMA staff for their work during the hurricane and the Maui wildfires.

Biden noted that he once again spoke with Florida governor and 2024 presidential candidate Ron DeSantis on Thursday.

"Governor DeSantis and I spoke again this morning and let him know that I accrued his major disaster declaration," Biden said.

-ABC News' Molly Nagle

DeSantis surveys damage in Big Bend

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis visited Steinhatchee in Florida's Big Bend region on Thursday to survey the damage caused by Idalia.

"I'm seeing a lot of damage, and I'm also seeing a lot of resiliency," DeSantis said.

The governor said 135,000 customers are still without power in the state and noted that there have been 430,000 restorations since the storm hit on Wednesday.

DeSantis said most schools that closed due to the hurricane will be open by Friday.

-ABC News' Will McDuffie and Hannah Demissie

Idalia moves off the coast

Tropical Storm Idalia is moving off the North Carolina coast and heading out to sea.

Rain and gusty winds will continue to hit North Carolina's Outer Banks through the afternoon before trailing off Thursday evening.

Parts of eastern North Carolina recorded more than 6 inches of rain, causing flash flooding Thursday morning.

Charleston, which is vulnerable to flooding, recorded a storm surge of 3.47 feet -- its fifth highest on record.

But Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg said the city "really dodged the bullet" of Hurricane Idalia.

"The wind and the rain impact were pretty minimal," he said Thursday.

Twenty-two water rescues were reported, which mostly were for people trapped in flooded cars, the mayor said.

-ABC News' Jason Volack

FAA 'closely monitoring' Idalia, airlines issue travel notices

Airlines and The Federal Aviation Administration said it's monitoring Tropical Storm Idalia as it heads to the U.S.

The FAA posted on social media that it's "closely monitoring" Idalia's path, but it isn't responsible for closing airports and canceling flights.

American Airlines issued a travel alert that allows its customers whose plans are impacted by Idalia to rebook their flights without incurring a change fee.

Southwest Airlines said it anticipates some changes to its schedule and an impact on its operation as the storm approaches. The airline has issued a travel advisory for its customers.

United Airlines has issued travel waivers for customers traveling to and from impacted airports. The company said it's working to ensure its team is prepared to deal with the expected severe weather.

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Idalia has 'infernal potential' as storm takes aim at Florida, forecaster warns: Updates

Tropical Storm Idalia formed Sunday in the Gulf of Mexico amid warnings it could slam across Florida's shores as a hurricane, dropping up to 18 inches of rain on a region battered less than a year ago by historic Hurricane Ian.

Ryan Truchelut, chief meteorologist at Florida-based WeatherTiger , says there are warning signals that Idalia could reach major hurricane intensity − sustained winds of at least 111 mph for Category 3 status − and that it would be "naïve to ignore them."

On Sunday night, Truchelut said Idalia was in the northwestern Caribbean and appeared to be developing "deep area" thunderstorm activity near its circulation center, which could cause intensification of the storm on Monday. Idalia had also drifted slightly east at 3 mph with an increased maximum of sustained winds up from 45 mph.

"More damaging and less damaging outcomes remain on the table," said Truchelut, who provides forecasts for the USA TODAY Network. "But the eastern Panhandle, Big Bend and west-central Florida coasts are at serious risk of surge, wind and rain impacts from a potential major hurricane landfall Wednesday."

AccuWeather said several inches of rain could trigger inland flooding in low-lying areas beginning as early as Tuesday in central and northern Florida. Wind gusts of up to 60 mph are likely in much of northern and central Florida with gusts of up to 80 mph along the Florida Gulf Coast.

A high risk for impact was centered around the Big Bend region of the Gulf Coast linking the Panhandle and peninsula, AccuWeather said, warning of "life-threatening damaging winds, torrential rain and storm surge flooding" as Idalia closes in on the state, gaining strength as it sweeps across high water temperatures in the Gulf.

The storm could prompt travel problems, and "significant airline delays" are possible for flights in and out of the region Tuesday to Wednesday, AccuWeather said.

Developments:

◾Late Sunday, the storm was about 95 miles east-southeast of Cozumel, Mexico, moving northeast at 3 mph with highest sustained winds of 45 mph, forecasters said. Hurricanes have winds of 74 mph and above.

◾Idalia could approach Florida on Wednesday with winds of up to 100 mph, according to the latest forecasts from the Hurricane Center. That would make it a Category 2 hurricane.

What is the Saffir-Simpson hurricane win Breaking down the hurricane category scale

What is the possible path of Tropical Storm Idalia?

The track forecast map shows the potential path of the center of the storm, according to the hurricane center. The forecast cone does not include the width of the storm or its impacts, and a storm's center can move outside the cone about 33% of the time. 

Hurricane tracker: Updates on the path of every storm

Risk of high storm surge along Florida coast

The National Hurricane Center issued several storm surge and hurricane watches for the west coast of Florida and the coast of the Florida Panhandle. Although it is "too soon" to specify the exact location of these impacts, the center said there is an increased risk of life-threatening storm surge and hurricane-force winds.

Truchelut said significant storm surge will be seen along the nature and west central coast, with a potential for seven to 11 feet of storm surge in the Big Bend area and northern Nature Coast.

Scattered flash flooding and urban flooding is also expected in these regions and in portions of the U.S. Southeast from Tuesday to Thursday, according to the hurricane center.

Tuesday a 'dangerous day' as storm builds

Truchelut said Tuesday will be "a dangerous day, and I don’t like what I’m seeing." He said a combination of factors could strengthen the storm.

"I don’t want to pull the fire alarm, but Idalia has infernal potential, and you need to react now while you still have time," he said. "Stay safe, Florida, and keep watching the skies."

The National Weather Service in Tampa Bay warned of tropical storm and hurricane conditions "mainly" Tuesday into Wednesday. Truchelut noted that there is an intensification trend currently ongoing which will continue over the course of Monday as Idalia moves north and becomes a "little bit more organized."

He added that one of the main factors to watch for is the dry air evolution on Monday. Dry air in the mid levels of the atmosphere can impede hurricane development but Truchelut said other weather conditions on Tuesday can set Idalia off and "push it up to a major hurricane."

What is storm surge? Explaining a hurricane's deadliest and most destructive threat

Florida bracing for up to 18 inches of rain

Portions of the eastern Yucatan Peninsula could see 2 to 4 inches, and isolated higher totals of 6 inches are possible, the weather service said. Western Cuba could be hit with 3 to 6 inches, and isolated spots could get 10 inches.

As the storm rolls into Florida, portions of the state's Gulf Coast, the Florida Panhandle and southern Georgia could see 4 to 8 inches, and some areas could be blasted by up to 18 inches of rain over a span of less than 12 hours Tuesday into Wednesday, AccuWeather said.

Heavy rainfall is also likely to spread into portions of the Carolinas by Wednesday into Thursday, the weather service said.

Gov. Ron DeSantis declares state of emergency

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency for 33 counties ahead of the storm. Emergency management officials were taking precautions "to ensure Florida’s communities, infrastructure and resources are prepared, including those communities that are still recovering following Hurricane Ian," DeSantis said.

Ian crashed through the state last September, killing 150 people in Florida alone and causing damage estimated at more than $100 billion.

DeSantis said authorities were moving resources into areas likely to be slammed by the storm, and he urged residents to ensure "their hurricane supply kit is stocked." The declaration includes almost half the state's 67 counties, stretching from Fort Myers north through Panama City in the Panhandle. Municipalities across the region were providing sandbags in preparation for the storm.

Franklin should become 'major' hurricane Sunday

Hurricane Franklin was 275 miles northeast of Grand Turk Island with sustained winds of 100 mph and forecast to strengthen to a "major" hurricane sometime Sunday, the weather service said. The storm was rolling north-northwest at 8 mph and, while no watches or warnings were in effect, residents and tourists in Bermuda were warned to monitor the system. A major hurricane packs winds of 111 mph or more, the equivalent of a Categories 3, 4 and 5.

"Our emergency personnel remain mobilized should the need arise," Bermuda National Security Minister Michael Weeks said.

Contributing: Dinah Pulver, USA TODAY

Idalia expected to hit Florida as major Category 3 hurricane

Idalia is expected to intensify early this week and hit Florida's Gulf Coast as a major category three hurricane, according to officials.

The system was forecast to become a dangerous "major hurricane" over the northeastern Gulf of Mexico by early Wednesday, the National Hurricane Center said. A major hurricane is defined as a Category 3 system or stronger on the Saffir-Simpson hurricane wind scale.

Hurricane watches are in effect along the Gulf Coast from Sarasota County all the way north to Franklin County, Gov. Ron DeSantis said at a Monday morning news briefing.

“So, this is going to be a major impact and Floridians should expect that this storm will be a major category three plus hurricane, so please prepare accordingly,” DeSantis said.

DeSantis said the storm is expected to impact the areas between the north of Tampa all the way to Tallahassee, but warned residents elsewhere can still be impacted.

"So, pretty much anybody on the west coast of Florida, I mean, you can see major, major impacts and so please prepare accordingly," he said.

Idalia could bring "life-threatening storm surge, hurricane force winds and scattered flash and urban flooding" along parts of the west coast of Florida and the Florida Panhandle as early as Tuesday, the National Weather Service said.

The storm is expected to bring 7 to 10 feet of storm surge to areas like Pinellas County, according to Kevin Guthrie, Florida Division of Emergency Management Executive Director.

"Storm surge can be life threatening at just 2 to 3 feet, some of these areas are going to experience storm surge well over seven," Guthrie said at the Monday morning news briefing.

Guthrie warned that Idalia will also bring "tornadic activity."

“As in Hurricane Ian, the very first warning that we had that something was going bad was a tornado in Palm Beach County," he said.

The hurricane center said parts of the west coast of Florida, the Florida Panhandle, southeast Georgia and the eastern Carolinas could see around 4 to 8 inches of rain from Tuesday into Thursday, with isolated totals of 12 inches possible.

“Areas of flash and urban flooding, some of which may be locally significant, are expected across portions of the west coast of Florida, the Florida Panhandle, and southern Georgia Tuesday into Wednesday, spreading into portions of the eastern Carolinas Wednesday into Thursday,” it said.

Already, the storm was intensifying as it approached Cuba on Monday morning, the hurricane center said.

As of 8 a.m. ET, Idalia was about 375 miles southwest of Key West, with maximum sustained winds of 65 mph, according to Guthrie.

DeSantis has issued an emergency executive order in 46 counties, including Franklin, Gulf, Manatee, Pinellas, Polk and Sarasota counties.

Evacuation orders will be issued to all counties along the Gulf Coast, indicated on the evacuation zone map as zones A and B, according to DeSantis.

Florida residents ordered to evacuate should be prepared to get to higher ground, DeSantis said, adding that it's not necessary to travel hundreds of miles or leave the state.

“This is going to be a major hurricane, this is going to be a powerful hurricane," said DeSantis. "And this is absolutely going to impact the state of Florida in many, many different ways. So please, please heed the directives from your local officials, please make the appropriate accommodations and take the appropriate precautions.”

A hurricane warning, which means hurricane conditions are expected, was in effect for the city of Pinar del Río in Cuba, while a tropical storm warning was in place for the Yucatan Peninsula from Tulum to Rio Lagartos, including Cozumel, in Cuba, along with the Isle of Youth.

A tropical storm warning was also in place for the Dry Tortugas in Florida, while a storm surge watch was also in effect for Chokoloskee to Indian Pass in Florida, including Tampa Bay, according to the hurricane center.

A hurricane watch, which means hurricane conditions are possible, was in place for Englewood to Indian Pass in Florida, including Tampa Bay.

Chantal Da Silva is a breaking news editor for NBC News Digital based in London. 

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Hurricane Idalia strengthens as it heads toward Florida: Path live updates

Storm Idalia strengthened into a hurricane on Tuesday and is expected to rapidly intensify before making landfall along the western coast of Florida on Wednesday.

Large parts of the coastline are at risk for storm surges and floods of up to 12 feet. Evacuation notices have been issued in 21 counties with mandatory orders for some people in eight of those counties. Residents were loading up on sandbags and heading to emergency shelters.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said in a press conference on Monday: “The property – we can rebuild someone’s home. You can’t unring the bell, though, if somebody stays in harm’s way and does battle with Mother Nature.”

Hurricane Idalia is moving through the Gulf of Mexico after lashing Cuba with heavy rain, especially in the westernmost part of the island, where the province of Pinar del Rio is still recovering from the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian last September.

When will Hurricane Idalia make landfall in Florida?

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis warns Idalia will become ‘powerful’ hurricane

Hurricane Idalia mapped: Storm tracker

Where does Idalia rank among strongest hurricanes to hit Florida?

Watch: world equestrian center races to protect horses as hurricane idalia heads for florida.

09:40 , Rachel Sharp

Hurricane Idalia continues to strengthen as it heads for Florida

09:20 , Rachel Sharp

Hurricane Idalia continues to strengthen as it heads for Florida, where residents have been warned to brace for “catastrophic storm surge and destructive winds”.

“Hurricane Hunter data indicate that Hurricane #Idalia is still strengthening,” the National Hurricane Center said.

“Catastrophic storm surge and destructive winds will begin soon in the Florida Big Bend near where the core of the hurricane makes landfall.”

Hurricane Hunter data indicate that Hurricane #Idalia is still strengthening. Catastrophic storm surge and destructive winds will begin soon in the Florida Big Bend near where the core of the hurricane makes landfall. Latest info available at https://t.co/tW4KeGe9uJ pic.twitter.com/fJZjPcJp4F — National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) August 30, 2023

Tampa Police Chief warns: ‘Turn around, don’t drown'

09:00 , Josh Marcus

Florida leaders are warning residents against driving through dangerous storm surge waters, saying that conditions can escalate unexpectedly within minutes.

“I was out on Bayshore today at 1:30, and it was dry — literally a half hour later there were portions of Bayshore that were already flooded. I witnessed for myself people driving in the water,” Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw said on Tuesday. “Don’t be that person. Remember: Turn around, don’t drown.”

Tornado watch for parts of Florida

08:40 , Stuti Mishra

Meanwhile, a tornado watch was also issued until 6am ET for 3.7 million people in the western peninsula of Florida.

A tornado watch has been issued for parts of Florida until 6 AM EDT pic.twitter.com/QnqruTvWSm — NWS Tornado (@NWStornado) August 30, 2023

When and where will Idalia make landfall today?

08:30 , Stuti Mishra

Hurricane Idalia, now a Category 3 storm with sustained winds of 120mph, is barrelling toward Florida's coast, already battering it with high tides and ferocious winds.

The storm is expected to make landfall between 6am and 9am this morning south of Perry, Florida, after becoming an even stronger Category 4 hurricane, which means it should be considered "extremely dangerous".

It is expected to reach wind speeds in excess of 130mph, with the most extreme winds passing just southeast of Tallahassee.

"Additional strengthening is forecast, and Idalia is forecast to become a Category 4 hurricane before it reaches the Big Ben coast of Florida this morning," said the National Hurricane Center in its early morning update.

"Idalia is likely to still be a hurricane while moving across southern Georgia, and possibly when it reaches the coast of Georgia or southern South Carolina late today."

In the state's Big Bend area, forecasters are warning of a record-breaking storm surge of 10 to 15 feet.

Watch live: Hurricane Idalia pummels Cedar Key, Florida as it comes ashore

08:10 , Stuti Mishra

Watch live as Hurricane Idalia pummels Cedar Key, Florida as it comes ashore.

Despite rivalry, Gavin Newsom sending search-and-rescue team to Florida

07:59 , Josh Marcus

California Gavin Newsom has made no secret of his distaste for Florida governor Ron DeSantis, but the Democrat’s office announced on Tuesday he’s sending state search-and-rescue specialists to assist the Gulf region in responding to Hurricane Idalia.

Here’s more on the long, complicated relationship between the two men.

The long, bitter rivalry between Ron DeSantis and Gavin Newsom

Idalia to bring 12-16 feet storm surge

07:55 , Stuti Mishra

Hurricane Idalia’s most dangerous feature appears to be the powerful surge of wind-driven seawater that is expected to hit barrier islands and other low-lying areas along the coast.

The NHC warning centre shows the storm could bring sea surge as high as 16 feet to some areas, particularly from St Marks to Cedar Key.

"That will be catastrophic and you can't survive that," warned meteorologist Craig Ceecee. "Anyone still there in a flood zone needs to leave now while they still have a chance."

The storm surge forecast for the Big Bend, particularly from St. Marks to Cedar Key, is now up to 12 to 16 feet. That will be catastrophic and you can't survive that. Anyone still there in a flood zone needs to leave now while they still have a chance. #FLwx #Idalia pic.twitter.com/ThGYiDVTXY — Craig Ceecee, Ph.D. (@CC_StormWatch) August 30, 2023

07:30 , Stuti Mishra

"That will be catastrophic and you can't survive that," warned meteorologist Craig Ceecee.

"Anyone still there in a flood zone needs to leave now while they still have a chance."

Idalia intensifies to Category 3

07:10 , Stuti Mishra

Hurricane Idalia has been upgraded to a Category 3 storm, according to the National Hurricane Center, as it continues to barrel towards Florida's Gulf Coast gaining further strength.

The storm, which is packing maximum sustained winds of 120 mph, is now classified as a major hurricane, with catastrophic storm surge and destructive winds expected in the Big Bend region.

Idalia will further grow in strength and become a Category 4 "extremely dangerous" storm by the time it makes landfall today in south of Perry, Florida.

The hurricane is about 100 miles southwest of Cedar Key and 175 miles south of Tallahassee, and is moving at about 15 mph.

Hurricane #Idalia Advisory 14A: Idalia Rapidly Intensifies Into a Major Hurricane. Catastrophic Storm Surge and Destructive Winds Expected in The Florida Big Bend Region This Morning When Idalia Moves Inland. https://t.co/tW4KeGe9uJ — National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) August 30, 2023

Watch: Hurricane Idalia batters Key West resort

06:50 , Stuti Mishra

Hurricane Idalia batters Key West resort

Millions in and close to Florida under Idalia-related advisories

06:30 , Stuti Mishra

Most of Florida’s 21 million residents, along with many in Georgia and South Carolina, are under hurricane, tropical storm and storm surge warnings and advisories as Idalia is set to make landfall on Wednesday.

State emergency declarations were issued in Florida, Georgia and South Carolina.

In Florida, Idalia-related disruptions extended to its Atlantic coast at Cape Canaveral, where the Tuesday launch of a rocket carrying a US Space Force intelligence satellite was delayed indefinitely due to the hurricane.

The NHC said Idalia’s centre would likely hit Florida’s coastline somewhere in the Big Bend region, where the state’s northern panhandle curves into the Gulf side of the Florida Peninsula, roughly bounded by the inland cities of Gainesville and Tallahassee, the state capital.

Satellite visuals show lightning within Hurricane Idalia

06:00 , Stuti Mishra

New satellite images taken during sunset on Tuesday show the rapidly intensifying Hurricane Idalia churning towards Florida, with lightning spotted within its rainbands.

Stunning satellite visuals this evening of Hurricane Idalia and the lightning within. pic.twitter.com/HJyvZYQyyg — CIRA (@CIRA_CSU) August 29, 2023

Biden promises federal government will give Florida ‘everything they need’ to respond to Idalia

05:40 , Stuti Mishra

The White House says it will do whatever is necessary to support Florida in the aftermath of Hurricane Idalia.

“We’re gonna make sure that they have everything they need,” the president said on Tuesday.

Pres. Biden tells @KarenTravers that he spoke with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis about incoming Hurricane Idalia, says officials are worried about potential storm surge. "We're gonna make sure that they have everything they need.” https://t.co/dXzqkczq8R pic.twitter.com/lvhKXFz3eH — ABC News (@ABC) August 29, 2023

Hurricane Idalia expected to land as Category 4 storm

05:20 , Stuti Mishra

Hurricane Idalia is gaining fury as it crawls toward Florida's Gulf Coast, and is now forecast to reach Category 4 intensity by the time it makes landfall.

The storm is expected to arrive on Wednesday morning, forcing mass evacuations in low-lying areas expected to be swamped.

Idalia was generating maximum sustained winds of 110 miles per hour (177 kph) by late Tuesday night - at the upper end of Category 2 - and its force will ratchet higher before it slams ashore, the Miami-based National Hurricane Center (NHC) projected.

By that time the storm was forecast to reach "an extremely dangerous Category 4 intensity" - with maximum sustained winds of at least 130 mph (209 kph) - on the five-step Saffir-Simpson wind scale, the NHC reported.

The hurricane was upgraded on Tuesday evening to a Category 2 after its top wind speeds surpassed 95 mph (153 kph), feeding on the warm, open waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Any storm designated Category 3 or higher is classified as a major hurricane.

Idalia's most dangerous feature, however, appeared to be the powerful surge of wind-driven seawater it is expected to deliver to barrier islands and other low-lying areas along the coast.

Live: View of Fort Myers as Hurricane Idalia hurtles towards Florida

05:02 , Stuti Mishra

Climate change makes rapidly intensifying storms ‘more likely'

04:20 , Josh Marcus

The climate crisis will make the prospect of storms rapidly intensifying over warm ocean waters much more likely, according to scientists.

“The frequency of cases of rapid intensification has increased in recent years,” Allison Wing, an assistant professor of atmospheric science at Florida State University, told CNN on Tuesday. “While each storm has a unique set of circumstances, climate change makes the occurrence of strong hurricanes that rapidly intensify more likely.”

Rapid intensification occurs when a storm’s wind speed increases by at least 35 mph in 24 hours or less.

The process makes storms more dangerous and harder to prepare for.

How climate change is impacted Hurricane Idalia

03:20 , Josh Marcus

Hurricanes draw their energy from warm sea waters, and few places are hotter right now than those surrounding Florida.

“It’s 88, 89 degrees (31, 32 degrees Celsius) over where the storm’s going to be tracking, so that’s effectively rocket fuel for the storm,” Colorado State University hurricane researcher Phil Klotzbach told The Associated Press on Tuesday. “It’s basically all systems go for the storm to intensify.”

Climate change, in addition to a natural El Niño pattern, are causing extremely warm waters in the Atlantic Ocean at the moment.

Flashback: Ron DeSantis doesn’t acknowledge human role in climate crisis

02:20 , Josh Marcus

As a hurricane heads towards Florida, it’s worth remembering that Governor Ron DeSantis, who will lead the state’s disaster response, would not vocally acknowledge the human drivers of the climate crisis during last week’s Republican debate.

Instead of expounding on his views, he lashed out at Joe Biden for his response to the deadly Maui fires, the deadliest wildfire in more than a century in the US, a disaster that was fuelled in part by the climate crisis , according to scientists.

“First of all, one of the reasons our country has declined is because of the way the corporate media treats Republicans versus Democrats,” Mr DeSantis said. “Biden was on the beach while those people were suffering. He was asked about it and said no comment. Are you kidding me? As someone who has handled disasters in Florida, you’ve gotta be activated. You’ve gotta be there. You’ve gotta be present. You’ve gotta be helping people who are doing this.”

The only candidate who affirmatively acknowledged the reality of the climate crisis at length was former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley.

Republican candidates spark outrage with sweeping climate crisis denial at debate

Clouds darken sky as Hurricane Idalia approaches Tampa

01:50 , Josh Marcus

Hurricane Idalia isn’t expected to make landfall until Wednesday, but the skies area already darkening on the Florida coast.

A wall of dark clouds could be seen looming above the ocean off the coast of Tampa, even as some beachgoers continued to play in the water.

One more video as the outerbands of #HurricaneIdalia approaches the Tampa Bay Area. I’ve never seen the sky so dark during the day. Mother Nature is showing all her strength today! @wusf @WFLA @MattDevittWINK @NOAA @NHC_Atlantic @NWSTampaBay #Idalia #nokomis #flwx pic.twitter.com/G6hzYRdCuH — Jen Hemmerdinger (@JenHemmerdinger) August 29, 2023

Florida cities already flooding from Hurricane Idalia

01:20 , Josh Marcus

Hurricane Idalia’s outer bands are already arriving on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Residents of Fort Myers Beach, in the south of the state, captured ankle-deep flooding on Tuesday, even as the storm isn’t expected to arrive in full force until tomorrow.

Watch below via AccuWeather.

The outer bands of Hurricane #Idalia are bringing rough surf and flooding to Florida's Gulf Coast. Footage captured in Fort Myers Beach this afternoon: pic.twitter.com/sQbWaY0din — AccuWeather (@accuweather) August 29, 2023

WATCH: Ron DeSantis provides update on incoming Hurricane Idalia

00:50 , Josh Marcus

Florida governor Ron DeSantis spoke from Lake City, Florida, on Tuesday to warn residents about the incoming Hurricane Idalia, which is expected to make landfall on Wednesday.

See his full remarks below.

Governor Ron DeSantis Gives Update on Hurricane Idalia From Lake City Florida https://t.co/WclR1Xsgju — Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) August 29, 2023

‘Don’t mess around with this,’ forecast warns

00:20 , Josh Marcus

Forecasters say Hurricane Idalia, which is barreling towards the Gulf Coast of Florida, is unprecedented.

“You need to complete your preparations today if you live in the Florida big bend. To put this system into the historical context, there are NO major hurricanes in the historical dataset going back to 1851 that have tracked into Apalachee Bay. None,” the National Weather Service said on Tuesday in a public forecast. “Don`t mess around with this. Follow the advice of your local emergency management.”

Florida braces for arrival of Hurricane Idalia at full force

23:52 , Josh Marcus

Parts of Hurricane Idalia are already arriving in the Florida Keys, with the storm expected to land in full force on Wednesday.

“This whole town is very, very old, so a lot of the infrastructure that’s on Second Street … it’s been there for 100-plus years. I’m just really worried it might not be the same when we get back,” Carol Carlin of Cedar Key told The Miami Herald as she prepared to evacuate.

Florida has stationed 55,000 national guardsmen and 25,000 electric linemen ahead of the hurricane’s arrival, according to the governor’s office.

WATCH: Hurricane Idalia batters Key West resort

23:29 , Josh Marcus

Storm Idalia strengthened into a hurricane on Tuesday, 29 August and is expected to rapidly intensify before making landfall along the western coast of Florida on Wednesday.

Idalia is expected to be a historic event with “life-threatening” storm surges of up to 15 feet from tonight into Wednesday in the Big Bend area, according to authorties.

The latest National Weather Service update for Key West states: “A Tropical Storm Watch remains in effect for the Lower Florida Keys, from the west end of the Seven Mile Bridge through Key West.”

Hurricane Idalia arrives on anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and Ida

22:55 , Josh Marcus

Hurricane Idalia, expected to make landfall in the US on Wednesday , is arriving near the anniversaries of hurricanes Katrina and Ida, two of the deadliest hurricanes in US history.

Both of those storms slammed into the Gulf Coast on 29 August , in 2005 and 2021, respectively.

Together, they killed what’s believed to be more than 1,400 people.

National Weather Service warns of ‘catastrophic impacts’ from Hurricane Idalia

22:32 , Josh Marcus

Hurricane Idalia could bring “catastrophic impacts” when it arrives on land over Florida’s Gulf Coast on Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service .

“Catastrophic impacts from storm surge inundation of 10 to 15 feet above ground level and destructive waves are expected,” the NWS warned in a Tuesday forecast, particularly between Aucilla River and Yankeetown, Florida.

“There is potential for destructive life-threatening winds where the core of Idalia moves onshore in the Big Bend region of Florida, with hurricane conditions expected elsewhere,” the NWS added.

‘One word: Leave’: Residents warned to evacuate from high-risk island

22:04 , Louise Boyle

On the island of Cedar Key, Commissioner Sue Colson joined other city officials in packing up documents and electronics at City Hall. She had a message for the almost 900 residents who were under mandatory orders to evacuate the island near the coast of the Big Bend region.

More than a dozen state troopers went door to door warning residents that storm surge could rise as high as 15 feet (4.5 meters).

“One word: Leave,” Colson said. “It’s not something to discuss.”

Not everyone was heeding the warning. Andy Bair, owner of the Island Hotel, said he intended to “babysit” his bed-and-breakfast, which predates the Civil War. The building has not flooded in the almost 20 years he has owned it, not even when Hurricane Hermine flooded the city in 2016.

“Being a caretaker of the oldest building in Cedar Key, I just feel kind of like I need to be here,” Bair said. “We’ve proven time and again that we’re not going to wash away. We may be a little uncomfortable for a couple of days, but we’ll be OK eventually.”

The Associated Press

Why stormy weather this week could make or break Ron DeSantis

21:40 , Louise Boyle

Florida governor is facing negative headlines with Hurricane Idalia and the mass shooting in Jacksonville, but he has a chance to get good coverage too, writes Washington Bureau Chief Eric Garcia.

American Red Cross announces $1bn plan to address climate crisis in disaster relief work

21:20 , Louise Boyle

As Hurricane Idalia bears down on Florida, the Red Cross announced today an unprecedented $1 billion plan to address the climate crisis through their disaster relief work.

It’s the first effort from the organization to connect the climate crisis to disaster work and will encompass disaster relief, new international programs on climate response and preparedness, and sustainability efforts to minimize its own environmental footprint.

“As part of the world’s largest humanitarian network and a national leader in disaster relief, the American Red Cross is uniquely positioned to provide support to those who are threatened by climate-driven extreme weather,” said Gail McGovern, president and CEO of the American Red Cross.

“I can tell you firsthand that our changing climate is a humanitarian crisis for the communities and people we serve, and as fast as we are working to adapt, the needs are escalating faster. There is no time to wait.”

Watch: Western Florida makes last preparations as Hurricane Idalia looms

21:01 , Louise Boyle

Pictured: Battening down the hatches

20:42 , Louise Boyle

The counties with evacuation orders in place

20:23 , Louise Boyle

More than 20 counties are under evacuation orders in Florida in western and central parts of the state”

Citrus County

Dixie County

Franklin County

Gilchrist County

Gulf County

Hernando County

Hillsborough County

Jefferson County

Lafayette County

Levy County

Madison County

Manatee County

Marion County

Pasco County

Pinellas County

Sarasota County

Sumter County

Suwannee County

Union County

Volusia County

Wakulla County

20:20 , Louise Boyle

Josh Dozor, former deputy assistant administrator of FEMA and current general manager of medical and security assistance at risk mitigation company, International SOS, shared key points on staying safe during Hurricane Idalia with The Independent via email.

“With Hurricane Idalia likely to result in severe winds, flooding, and storm surges, it’s essential to listen to local authorities to learn if your area is under the requirement for evacuation.

“It is expected that additional voluntary and mandatory evacuation orders likely in the coming hours and disruption to local infrastructure and transportation will continue in the days following landfall.

“To ensure safety, International SOS is recommending to:

Defer all travel to parts of Florida state in the projected path of the storm until at least 31 August. These areas include coastal portions of West Florida from Sarasota in the south to Panama City Beach in the north, as well as inland cities in the storm’s path, such as Gainesville. Out of an abundance of caution and due to the potential for changes in the storm’s trajectory, International SOS recommends those in the above-mentioned locations depart as soon as possible if they meet any of the below criteria:

Monitor developments and anticipate disruption associated with Idalia’s passage. The trajectory and intensity of tropical cyclones can change abruptly.

Monitor the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) for up-to-date information on the storm’s progress and any related advisories.

Reconfirm bookings with travel providers. In the event of cancellations, your travel agent will be able to help with alternative arrangements.

Flash floods are possible following prolonged spells of rain. Ensure routes are clear prior to departure and allow additional times for journeys. Do not attempt to cross flooded roads. If you come upon a flooded road, turn around and look for an alternate route.

Watch: Florida coastguard prepare rescue helicopters ahead of Hurricane Idalia

20:00 , Louise Boyle

Disney remains open, and is ‘monitoring’ hurricane

19:55 , Louise Boyle

Walt Disney World Resort is currently operating under normal conditions, according to the latest statement from the company on Tuesday morning.

“We are closely monitoring the path of the projected weather as we continue to prioritize the safety of our Guests and Cast Members,” a post on the Walt Disney website read.

Hurricane Idalia joins a march of climate-driven disasters

19:42 , Louise Boyle

Hurricane Idalia may be the first to hit Florida this hurricane season - but it joins a long list of disasters in the United States and globally which are being amplified by the climate crisis.

The state of Hawaii is in recovery mode and still searching for victims after devastating wildfires on the island of Maui where drought conditions are believed to have played a role.

Earlier this month, the first tropical storm in almost a century hit California, causing flash flooding and mudslides. In July, Vermont was deluged by major flooding. And in early June, air quality plummeted across large parts of the United States and Canada as hundreds of wildfires rage out of control north of the border.

The climate crisis, driven by the emissions from burning fossil fuels, is raising the average global temperature and causing a cascade of impacts around the world.

Ocean temperatures have reached historic highs in many parts of the world this summer due to global heating and the developing recurring weather pattern, El Nino.

The Gulf of Mexico is experiencing high surface temperatures which scientists say could supercharge Idalia with stronger winds and more moisture as it comes ashore.

Cuba battered by Idalia

19:18 , Louise Boyle

Idalia thrashed Cuba with heavy rain, especially in the westernmost part of the island, where the tobacco-producing province of Pinar del Rio is still recovering from Ian.

More than 10,000 people evacuated to shelters or stayed with friends and relatives as up to 4 inches (10 centimeters) of rain fell. More than half of the province was without electricity. ( AP )

Pictured: Hurricane Idalia impacts begin in south Florida

19:03 , Louise Boyle

Visitors to the Southernmost Point buoy braved the waves to take photos on Tuesday as Hurricane Idalia passed the Florida Keys some 175 miles to the west on Tuesday in Key West.

Forecasters warned that Idalia is expected to increase in strength before it makes landfall somewhere in the Big Bend area of western Florida on Wedneday morning.

Hurricane Idalia captured from space

18:40 , Louise Boyle

Hurricane Idalia is strengthening as it moves towards Florida and the sheer scale of the vast storm was captured in high-resolution satellite imagery on Tuesday.

The Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere (CIRA) at Colorado State University shared the imagery of Idalia as the sun came up.

This morning we have incredibly high resolution imagery of Hurricane Idalia. This 30-second imagery shows impressive convection within Idalia as the sunrises. pic.twitter.com/1vdz94CpUy — CIRA (@CIRA_CSU) August 29, 2023

Gas stations running out of fuel in Florida

18:21 , Louise Boyle

Gas stations are Florida were running out of gas on Tuesday as residents raced to evacuate ahead of the major Hurricane Idalia.

According to GasBuddy, a social media account which tracks fuel, as of 10am (Eastern Time), 10 per cent of stations in the state were empty at the pump.

The most impacted area was Gainesville (4.7 per cent) then Fort Myers and Naples at 4 per cent. Tampa and St Petersburg followed with 2.6 per cent and then Orlando (0.5 per cent).

As of 10am ET, percentage of stations without gasoline in #Florida according to GasBuddy: Gainesville 4.7% Ft Myers/Naples 4.0% Tampa/St Pete 2.6% Orlando 0.5% — Patrick De Haan ⛽️📊 (@GasBuddyGuy) August 29, 2023

Watch: Idalia soaks battered Cuba with heavy rains

18:00 , Louise Boyle

Storm surge is biggest threat, say forecasters

17:39 , Louise Boyle

The biggest hazard from Hurricane Idalia is storm surge, warned the National Hurricane Center on Tuesday.

“We’re expecting a surge as much as 8 to 12 feet above normal tide levels in portions of the Big Bend area of Florida,” said Robbie Berg, a senior hurricane specialist at the National Hurricane Center in Miami.

While Big Bend is relatively densely-populated, major cities were also expected to see several feet of water.

Some 4ft-7ft of storm surge was expected in the Tampa Bay area; and 2ft-4ft in Charlotte Harbor.

Watch: Florida Governor Ron DeSantis gives update on Hurricane Idalia

17:19 , Louise Boyle

National Hurricane Center’s latest update

17:02 , Louise Boyle

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) issued the latest warnings on Idalia at 11am (eastern time) on Tuesday. The hurricane is currently around 275 miles south-southwest of Tampa, Florida

Among the key points:

- Idalia is strengthening and portions of the Gulf Coast of Florida will be hit with “life-threatening” storm surge and hurricane conditions from Tuesday night

- A Storm Surge Warning is in effect for Englewood northward to Indian Pass, including Tampa Bay

- A Hurricane Warning is in effect for Cuban province of Pinar del Rio; Middle of Longboat Key northward to Indian Pass, including Tampa Bay

- A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for Isle of Youth, Cuba; Dry Tortugas, Florida; Chokoloskee northward to the Middle of Longboat Key; West of Indian Pass to Mexico Beach; Sebastian Inlet Florida to South Santee River, South Carolina

- A Storm Surge Watch is in effect for Chokoloskee northward to Englewood, including Charlotte Harbour; Mouth of the St. Mary’s River to South Santee River, South Carolina

- A Hurricane Watch is in effect for Englewood to the Middle of Longboat Key

- A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Lower Florida Keys west of the west end of the Seven Mile Bridge; South Santee River northward to Surf City, North Carolina

Source: National Weather Service

Watch: Horse trainers prepare animals for Idalia

16:41 , Louise Boyle

Florida readies for Hurricane Idalia

16:20 , Louise Boyle

Tolls have been waived on highways out of the danger area in Florida as the state rushes to complete preparations as Hurricane Idalia looms.

Shelters have opened, hotels are prepared to take evacuees and more than 30,000 utility workers are being staged to make repairs as quickly as possible in the hurricane’s wake, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said on Tuesday.

“You do not have to leave the state. You don’t have to drive hundreds of miles. You have to get to higher ground in a safe structure. You can ride the storm out there, then go back to your home,” he said.

Watch: Florida towns rush to prepare and evacuate ahead of Hurricane Idalia

16:05 , Louise Boyle

15:49 , Louise Boyle

The National Hurricane Center warned that Hurricane Idalia is expected to strengthen and become extremely dangerous before hitting the west coast of Florida, near the Big Bend area on Wednesday morning.

Winds could reach at least 111 mph (178 kph) from Idalia, a Category 3 hurricane, and create life-threatening coastal surges of up to 12ft.

As it moves inland, rainfall of up to 10 inches is expected in parts of Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas.

Below are some of the strongest hurricanes to hit Florida, based on the storm-intensity scale of minimum atmospheric pressure. A lower pressure in millibars, or mb, indicates the power the storm. Storm Idalia is currently at 977 MB.

Labor Day, 1935: Unnamed hurricane, Florida Keys

892MB: The hurricane smacked into the Florida Keys as a Category 5, the highest ranking, with winds of up to 185 mph. In the upper Florida Keys, storm surge reached up to 20ft and wiping out nearly all structures between Tavernier and Marathon , and obliterating the town of Islamorada. Some 423 people died including many World War 1 veterans who had been in work camps in the Keys to construct a new highway.

Hurricane Michael, 2018

919MB: Michael, a late season hurricane, was the strongest on record to make landfall in the state. It came ashore in the Florida panhandle with sustained winds of 160mph and storm surge of 14ft in places.

The cities of Mexico Beach and Panama City were the most severely impacted. Hurricane Michael caused 74 deaths and $25billion in damages.

Hurricane Andrew, 1992

922MB: Andrew plowed into Miami-Dade County, south of Miami, in the early morning of 24 August with winds of 165mph. Contrary to what’s normal, almost all the damage in Florida was caused by the powerful winds rather than storm surge. Some 65 people died and damages topped $27 billion.

Hurricane Ian, 2022

947MB: Last September, Hurricane Ian roared ashore on the southwest coast of Florida with 150mph winds, a Category 4 storm. Nearly 150 deaths were reported and 20,000 buildings destroyed or severely damaged.

‘Don’t mess around with this'

15:20 , Louise Boyle

The National Weather Service office in Tallahassee issued a stark warning to Floridians as Hurricane Idalia moved towards the west coast.

“To put this system into the historical context, there are NO major hurricanes in the historical dataset going back to 1851 that have tracked into Apalachee Bay. None. Don’t mess around with this. Follow the advice of your local emergency management.”

Watch: Lightning flashes inside Idalia as monster hurricane moves towards Florida

15:04 , Louise Boyle

14:38 , Louise Boyle

Storm Idalia strengthened into a hurricane on Tuesday and is expected to rapidly intensify before making landfall along the west coast of Florida on Wednesday morning, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC).

Idalia will likely make landfall along Big Bend – a low-lying area with many marshlands. Up to 12 feet of storm surge is forecast in the area, NHC reported.

All flights in and out of Tampa International Airport canceled

13:55 , Rachel Sharp

All flights in and out of Tampa International Airport have been canceled as Hurricane Idalia heads to the state of Florida.

The airport announced that it was shutting from midnight on Monday.

🚨 TPA TO CLOSE DUE TO IDALIA 🚨 🫡 We will close at 12:01 AM Tuesday ✈️ Check directly with your airline for the latest flight updates ⛈️ TPA is not a shelter 📱 Stay tuned to our social media for the latest MORE DETAILS ➡️ https://t.co/MXZKAusjzW pic.twitter.com/m6nGbNdul3 — Tampa International Airport ✈️ (@FlyTPA) August 28, 2023

Is it safe to travel to Florida as Hurricane Idalia hits the US state?

13:35 , Rachel Sharp

Tropical Storm Idalia, now officially classed as a hurricane, is hurtling towards the US state of Florida, where hundreds of residents have been ordered to leave their homes.

A state of emergency was issued in 46 of Florida’s 67 counties, a wide patch that stretches across the northern half of the state from the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic Coast. Across this area, residents have been heading to shelters and loading up on sandbags.

Several counties are at risk of life-threatening floods, and Florida governor Ron DeSantis said of the evacuations in a press conference on 28 August: “We can rebuild someone’s home. You can’t unring the bell, though, if somebody stays in harm’s way and does battle with Mother Nature.”

Read more...

Is it safe to travel to Florida as Hurricane Idalia hits?

WATCH: Florida Governor Ron DeSantis warns that Idalia will become ‘powerful’ hurricane

13:15 , Rachel Sharp

Where is Hurricane Idalia now? Tropical storm system mapped

12:55 , Rachel Sharp

Hurricane Idalia was upgraded from a tropical storm status to a powerful hurricane on Tuesday morning as it barreled towards Florida’s Gulf Coast, where locals are bracing themselves for a life-threatening storm surge and dangerous high winds.

Western Cuba has already been hit by torrential rainfall and flooding from Idalia that could yet lead to mudslides, bringing further devastation to the tobacco-producing province of Pinar del Rio, which was hammered by Hurricane Ian last September.

As of Tuesday morning, Idalia is now crossing the Gulf of Mexico with maximum speeds of 70mph and is expected to turn north-northeast on Tuesday and Wednesday before moving at a faster pace, reported the US National Hurricane Center.

Check out a map of the path of the storm here:

Suspect charged in 2021 Boulder supermarket shooting competent for trial

Several Florida counties under evacuation orders

12:35 , Rachel Sharp

Several Florida counties are currently under evacuation orders as the state braces for Hurricane Idalia.

Areas where evacuation zones are in place include:

- Hillsborough County

- Citrus County

- Hernando County

- Sarasota County

- Polk County

- Pinellas County

- Pasco County

- Manatee County

National Hurricane Center gives update on Idalia

11:55 , Rachel Sharp

“Here are the Key Messages for Hurricane Idalia for the Tuesday am advisory. #Idalia is expected to intensify into an extremely dangerous major hurricane before landfall along the west coast or Big Bend region of Florida. More: http://hurricanes.gov,” the agency tweeted.

Here are the Key Messages for Hurricane Idalia for the Tuesday am advisory. #Idalia is expected to intensify into an extremely dangerous major hurricane before landfall along the west coast or Big Bend region of Florida. More: https://t.co/tW4KeGe9uJ pic.twitter.com/AV2NrctxlN — National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) August 29, 2023

WATCH: Florida braces for Idalia to make landfall

11:20 , Rachel Sharp

Map of Hillsborough County evacuation zones

11:00 , Rachel Sharp

Idalia has now strengthened to hurricane

10:17 , Rachel Sharp

Tropical Storm Idalia has now strengthened into a hurricane off the coast of Cuba as it continues to chart a path towards Florida, where hundreds of residents have been ordered to evacuate their homes.

The National Hurricane Center announced at around 5am ET on Tuesday that Idalia is now a hurricane and is expected to rapidly intensify into an extremely dangerous major hurricane before making landfall on Wednesday.

After charting a path over the Gulf of Mexico, the storm is expected to curve northeast toward the west coast of Florida.

Hurricane #Idalia Advisory 11: Idalia Now a Hurricane. Expected to Rapidly Intensify Into an Extremely Dangerous Major Hurricane Before Landfall On Wednesday. https://t.co/tW4KeGe9uJ — National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) August 29, 2023

Florida officials warn of gas contamination as Idalia approaches

09:45 , Stuti Mishra

Florida officials are warning drivers of potential fuel contamination at dozens of gas stations on the Gulf Coast as residents fill their tanks bracing for the landfall of Tropical Storm Idalia.

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services said late on Sunday that gasoline purchased after 10am Saturday at some Citgo-supplied stations had a strong likelihood of being contaminated with diesel fuel. Citgo identified 29 affected stations — sold at chains like 7-Eleven, BJ’s Wholesale and other convenience stores — in cities including Tampa , Fort Myers, Sarasota and more.

The contamination was caused by “human error,” the department said.

Florida officials warn of gas contamination as Tropical Storm Idalia approaches

Floodwaters swamp fishing villages, thousands evacuate as Idalia battered Cuba

09:00 , The Associated Press

Cubans rushed to evacuate coastal towns, batten down homes and tie down fishing boats as Idalia lingered for hours on Monday near the western end of the Caribbean island nation.

By mid-afternoon, chocolate brown floodwaters had swamped the small fishing village of Guan, one hour's drive south of Havana.

Decades-old buses missing floorboards and windows carried women and children to higher ground as winds howled, rattling tin roofs and slamming fishing boats tucked in the mangroves.

"We've had two days of rain already," said Yadira Alvarez, 34, as she readied for evacuation with her five children. "We try to prepare, but no matter what we do everything will be soaked."

Stormwater had already swelled to near knee height inside her home, she said.

Farther to the west, more intense winds closer to the storm centre pounded the tobacco-rich province of Pinar del Rio, home to the raw material for some of the world's finest Cuban cigars.

Authorities had evacuated tens of thousands of people from that province as well as neighbouring Artemisa, while squalls of heavy rain doused the Cuban capital of Havana.

Idalia 'could become a hurricane at any time', NHC says

Tropical Storm Idalia is strengthening now as it is in the process of forming an eye and "could become a hurricane at any time", the National Hurricane Center said in its update.

The storm is passing through western Cuba and was last spotted 190miles (315km) from Dry Tortugas. It is packing maximum sustained winds of 70mph (110kmh).

From here on, the storm is forecast to go through a rapid intensification as it become a "major" category 3 hurricane before making landfall in Florida on Wednesday.

Tropical Storm #Idalia Advisory 10: Idalia Lingering Near Western Cuba. Could Become a Hurricane At Any Time and Expected to Become A Major Hurricane Over the Eastern Gulf of Mexico. https://t.co/tW4KeGe9uJ — National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) August 29, 2023

Radar imagery shows Idalia forming eye

08:00 , Stuti Mishra

Idalia may soon go through a phase of "quick intensification", according to experts, as the radar imagery of the tropical storm shows it forming an inner core structure – more commonly known as an eye.

"Radar imagery over the past 2 hours shows the first signs of #Idalia forming an inner core structure, with banding wrapping around a greater fraction of the centre (red dot)," meteorologist Dr Levi Cowan wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

A storm forms an eye as it intensifies in warm waters. So far Idalia has struggled to form this inner core, but as it happens, the storm will go through a robust and rapid intensification.

"If this structure persists overnight, a phase of quick intensification may be about to begin," Dr Cowan wrote.

Radar imagery over the past 2 hours shows the first signs of #Idalia forming an inner core structure, with banding wrapping around a greater fraction of the center (red dot). If this structure persists overnight, a phase of quick intensification may be about to begin. pic.twitter.com/8zEHsT4UPN — Dr. Levi Cowan (@TropicalTidbits) August 29, 2023

Tropical Storm Idalia inches closer to Florida

Idalia’s is inching closer to Florida, with its distance from Dry Tortugas reduced to just 190miles or 315 kilometres, according to the latest update from the National Hurricane Center.

The storm, which is set to become a major hurricane before it makes landfall, is packing maximum sustained winds of 70mph or 110kmh.

Satellite video shows Idalia and Franklin swirling in Atlantic

Two storms, Idalia and Franklin, swirling in the Atlantic Ocean were captured in satellite imagery, posted by the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere (CIRA).

“Incredible view of sunlight fading on Hurricane Franklin and Tropical Storm Idalia,” CIRA wrote on X, previously known as Twitter.

Incredible view of sunlight fading on Hurricane Franklin and Tropical Storm Idalia. pic.twitter.com/heXUDiJQLu — CIRA (@CIRA_CSU) August 29, 2023

Tropical Storm Franklin strengthens into first major hurricane of 2023 Atlantic season

Both Hurricane Franklin and Tropical Storm Idalia are intensifying as the Atlantic hurricane season is beginning.

Idalia was off the coast of Cuba on Monday, potentially on a path to strike the southern US as a major hurricane, according to the National Hurricane Center .

Hurricane Franklin has been gaining in power and grew into the first major hurricane of the Atlantic season, increasing in strength overnight.

Here’s everything you need to know about Tropical Storm Franklin and its path:

Tropical Storm Franklin strengthens into a hurricane

Florida Gators change travel plans with Idalia approaching

06:27 , Stuti Mishra

College football team Florida Gators are changing their travel plans for the season opener at No. 14 Utah on Thursday night, hoping to avoid Tropical Storm Idalia.

A team spokesman said on Monday that the Gators will fly to Dallas on Tuesday, practise and spend the night there, and then travel to Salt Lake City on Wednesday. Coach Billy Napier's team had initially planned to fly from Gainesville to Utah on Wednesday.

Florida football team alters its travel plans with Tropical Storm Idalia approaching the state

Thousands evacuated in Cuba as Idalia hits

Idalia has now passed Cuba and brought with it heavy rain, especially in the westernmost part of the island, with around 8,000 people evacuated, according to state-run TV.

The tobacco-producing province of Pinar del Rio, which is still recovering from the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian almost a year ago, was worst affected.

Authorities in the province issued a state of alert as residents were moved to friends' and relatives' homes as the Cuyaguateje river was monitored for possible flooding.

As much as 10cm (4 inches) of rain fell in Cuba on Sunday, meteorological stations reported yesterday. Figures for Monday are yet to be released.

'You should be wrapping up your preparation tonight': Florida gears up for Idalia amid widespread state of emergency

Florida residents loaded up on sandbags and evacuated from homes in low-lying areas along the Gulf Coast as Tropical Storm Idalia intensified on Monday and forecasters predicted it would hit in days as a major hurricane with potentially life-threatening storm surges.

"You should be wrapping up your preparation for Tropical Storm Idalia tonight and Tues morning at the latest," the National Weather Service in Tampa Bay said on Monday on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Florida governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency in 46 counties, a broad swath that stretches across the northern half of the state from the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic Coast.

The state has mobilised 1,100 National Guard members, who have 2,400 high-water vehicles and 12 aircraft at their disposal for rescue and recovery efforts.

Mr DeSantis said the Florida Department of Transportation would waive tolls on highways in the Tampa area and the Big Bend starting at 4am on Tuesday to help ease any burden on people in the path of the storm.

Idalia just 370km away from Florida now

Tropical storm Idalia is now just 230 miles (370km) southwest of the Dry Tortugas National Park of Florida, according to the latest update from the National Hurricane Center.

Idalia is forecast to become a category 3 hurricane before it reaches the Florida coast.

The storm is packing maximum sustained winds of 70mph or 110km/h currently, with forecasts that these windspeeds could rise to over 111mph as the storm intensifies.

Idalia is expected to start affecting Florida with hurricane-force winds as soon as late Tuesday and arrive on the coast by Wednesday.

It is the first storm to hit Florida this hurricane season and a potentially big blow to the state, which is also dealing with lingering damage from last year's Hurricane Ian.

What is storm surge, and how much will Storm Idalia bring?

04:59 , Graig Graziosi

The NWS has warned that Idalia may cause “life threatening” storm surges to western Florida.

Storm surge is caused by strong winds from weather systems like tropical storms and hurricanes pushing ocean water inland. Not only can the surge waters flood coastal areas, they can also overflow coastal rivers and wetlands, causing massive flooding in the surrounding regions.

Forecasters believe that Idalia may bring up to 11 feet of storm surge to areas of the western Florida coast.

Storm surges can be exceptionally deadly and disruptive, completely inundating roadways and leaving residents who don’t evacuate trapped on the roofs of their homes, assuming it doesn’t uproot the house completely.

White House says FEMA has briefed Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on emergency preparations

04:00 , Graig Graziosi

The White House revealed details of a call between Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and the federal government today as state and federal officials prepare for Storm Idalia to make landfall on Wednesday as a Category 3 hurricane.

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell told Mr DeSantis that its National Response Coordinaton Centre has been “fully activated” to provide support and assistance.

Two Incident Management Teams have been deployed to Tallahassee, and Urban Search and Rescue teams have been activated and will be ready as of this evening to respond to emergencies, according to the memo.

FEMA said that it has a staging team at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, Alabama and a warehouse in Atlanta stocked with emergency supplies for distribution in Florida following the storm.

Manatee County officials say they’re preparing for a ‘direct hit’ from Storm Idalia

03:00 , Graig Graziosi

Manatee County Board of Commissioners Chairman Kevin Van Ostenbridge told residents that officials were preparing for a “direct hit” by Storm Idalia when it makes landfall as a likely Category 3 hurricane on Wednesday.

Mr Van Ostenbridge expleind that should the hurricane continue on its current course, it would make landfall north of Manatee County, but noted that if it were to take a right turn — which it may — it would be on a direct path to the county.

He said officials were preparing for it to hit the county directly just in case it takes a turn.

Manatee County is urging residents to prepare for a severe storm surge and the possibility of direct impact from a hurricane strength Idalia this week. pic.twitter.com/G0bTqtJDeb — Jesse Mendoza 🐳 (@Reportographer) August 28, 2023

02:00 , Graig Graziosi

Florida officials are warning drivers of potential fuel contamination at dozens of gas stations on the Gulf Coast as residents brace for the landfall later this week of Tropical Storm Idalia.

On Monday, Idalia was near the coast of Cuba and on a potential track to come ashore as a hurricane in the southern U.S. in the coming days, the National Hurricane Center said.

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services said late Sunday that gasoline purchased after 10 a.m. Saturday at some Citgo-supplied stations had a strong likelihood of being contaminated with diesel fuel. Citgo identified 29 affected stations — sold at chains like 7-Eleven, BJ’s Wholesale and other convenience stores — in cities including Tampa , Fort Myers, Sarasota and more.

Tampa International Airport announces closure ahead of Tropical Storm Idalia

01:00 , Graig Graziosi

The Tampa International Airport has announced it will close on Tuesday and presumably remain closed through Wednesday, when Tropical Storm Idalia is expected to make landfall in Florida as a Category 3 hurricane.

The airport will close tomorrow at 12:01am EST, officials said in a news release published on Monday.

The airport intends to remain closed until it can asses any damage caused by the hurricane, but officials anticipate reopening on Thursday, according to the press statement.

Closing the airport allows staff to prepare the grounds and facility for the storm’s arrival.

Officials also noted that the airport is not a shelter.

Ron DeSantis holds briefing as Tropical Storm Idalia threatens Florida

Tuesday 29 August 2023 00:00 , Graig Graziosi

Watch live as Ron DeSantis holds a news briefing on Monday, 28 August, as Tropical Storm Idalia develops in the Gulf of Mexico , potentially threatening Florida .

The storm is expected to hit the state by Tuesday or Wednesday morning after intensifying into a category 3 hurricane, the National Hurrican Center (NHC) said.

There are fears that the storm could bring “life-threatening” surges and flooding.

As of Monday, Idalia packed maximum sustained winds of 60 mph (95 kmh).

The Florida governor has asked residents to “have a plan and a stocked supply kit” as a state of emergency was declared for half of the state’s counties.

Watch: Ron DeSantis holds briefing as Tropical Storm Idalia threatens Florida

Hurricane expert believes Tropical Storm Idalia could whip into storm with more than 100mph winds

Monday 28 August 2023 23:00 , Graig Graziosi

Dr Levi Cowan, a senior scientist at the Joint Typhoon Warning Center, said Monday that he believes Tropical Storm Idalia could eventually produce more than 100mph winds when it reaches its full strength.

He noted in a post on X/Twitter that the storm still hadn’t quite found its core, but estimated that its primary growth period would occur once it reahces the Gulf of Mexico near Florida, meaning it still have plenty of time to ramp up in strength.

The answer is a bit of a pause is occurring as #Idalia has not yet managed to complete an inner core, which would require convective banding wrapping around the north side. Mid-level shear is delaying this process a bit. While good news, it's also what was expected by high… https://t.co/Y7b4PNo91D pic.twitter.com/Hpxhg6v5MK — Dr. Levi Cowan (@TropicalTidbits) August 28, 2023

Florida issues state of emergency for half its counties

Monday 28 August 2023 22:00 , Graig Graziosi

A state of emergency was issued for half of Florida counties on Saturday ahead of a potential hurricane that is on track to hit the state.

“I’ve signed an executive order declaring a state of emergency for 33 counties in preparation...,” Florida Governor Ron DeSantis wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Florida issues state of emergency as Tropical Storm Idalia heads for state

Pinellas County orders mandatory evacuation for numerous residents

Monday 28 August 2023 21:41 , Graig Graziosi

Pinellas County has issued a mandatory evacuation order for Zone A, a region of the county that includes the regions northwest of St Peterburg, Florida.

The evacuation order if effective as of Monday night at 7pm.

The order to evacuate includes mandatory evacuation for all mobile home owners in the affected area.

The county said that a shelter would open Monday at 7pm at John Hopkins Middle School, and that special needs transportation would begin on Tuesday morning at 7am.

Anticipating possible life-threatening storm surge as Tropical Storm Idalia is forecast to become a major hurricane, Pinellas County has ordered the mandatory evacuation of Zone A, including all mobile homes, effective tonight, Monday, Aug. 28, at 7 p.m. 1/2 pic.twitter.com/goGgcQ6rk5 — Pinellas County (@PinellasGov) August 28, 2023

Satellite image shows Hurricane Franklin and Tropical Storm Idalia churning off the coasts of Florida

Monday 28 August 2023 21:21 , Graig Graziosi

Satellite imagery captured both Hurricane Franklin and Tropical Storm Idalia churning off the eastern and western coasts of Florida, respectively.

While Hurricane Franklin is not expected to hit Florida, Tropical Storm Idalia is expected to make landfall on the state’s western coast on Wednesday, likely as a Category 3 hurricane.

Watch below:

Tropical Storm Idalia and Hurricane Franklin can be seen in this wide view. pic.twitter.com/2EheMdMukU — CIRA (@CIRA_CSU) August 28, 2023

Florida officials ask residents to report price gouging ahead of Storm Idalia’s landfall

Monday 28 August 2023 21:01 , Graig Graziosi

Florida officials have asked resident to report price gouging to the state’s hotline in the days before Storm Idalia is expected to reach the state’s western coast as a Category 3 hurricane.

The state’s attorney general, Ashley Moody, said that the state’s price gouging laws went into effect when Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency in 46 counties on Monday.

“If you see, whether its gas, or water, or lumber at an egregious price that you would not see on average, please let us know,” she said.

Ms Moody noted that Florida has seen a population surge in recent years and reminded residents that there are likely to be many newcomers experiencing and preparing for a major hurricane for the first time, and requested that residents help their neighbours.

Monday 28 August 2023 20:41 , Graig Graziosi

Monday 28 August 2023 20:21 , Graig Graziosi

Monday 28 August 2023 20:04 , Graig Graziosi

Storm Idalia’s winds increase to 70mph — nearly a Category 1 hurricane — as it nears western tip of Cuba

Monday 28 August 2023 19:45 , Graig Graziosi

The National Hurriance Centre is reporting that tropical storm Idalia’s wind speeds have increased to 70mph.

The storm is making its way past Cuba, after which it will enter the Gulf of Mexico, where it is expected to gain strength before making landfall in western Florida on Wednesday as a Category 3 hurricane.

A Tropical Storm typically becomes a Category 1 hurricane when its wind speeds reach between 74 and 95mph.

The storm is currently moving approximately 8mph .

Monday 28 August 2023 19:29 , Graig Graziosi

Tropical Storm Franklin has strengthened into a hurricane , according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC) on Saturday.

As of 11am Eastern time, Hurricane Franklin was about 315 miles east-northeast of Grand Turk Island, the capital island of the Turks and Caicos, and 620 miles south of Bermuda , forecasters said.

The hurricane’s winds had increased up to 75 mph, and NHC said that is had the potential to become a major hurricane by early next week - marking the first of the 2023 Atlantic season.

MacDill Air Force base in Tampa has issued mandatory evacuation

Monday 28 August 2023 19:15 , Graig Graziosi

The MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa has issued a mandatory evacuation for all non-critical staff.

“A mandatory base-wide evacuation order has been issued to be completed by 10:00am Tues. Aug. 29 for non-mission essential individuals and dependents and for those who reside in Evac Zone A in the following counties: Hillsborough, Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota, Pasco and Hernando.”

A mandatory base-wide evacuation order has been issued to be completed by 10:00am Tues. Aug. 29 for non-mission essential individuals and dependents and for those who reside in Evac Zone A in the following counties: Hillsborough, Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota, Pasco and Hernando. pic.twitter.com/d5ACShuhvb — MacDill AFB (@MacDill_AFB) August 28, 2023

Monday 28 August 2023 18:55 , Graig Graziosi

Georgia governor opens operations center to coordinate during Storm Idalia

Monday 28 August 2023 18:35 , Graig Graziosi

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has opened the State Operations Center to help coordinate response activities in anticipation of Storm Idalia, which is expected to make landfall in Florida on Wednesday as a Category 3 hurricane. The governor announced in a statement that the center — used by federal, state and local authorities as well as volunteer organisations— will monitor the storm’s progress and oversee response efforts in its wake.

“Thanks to our response partners on both the state and local levels, Georgia will be prepared for whatever Idalia will bring,” Mr Kemp said in the announcement.

He noted that the storm will likely have weakened by the time it enters Georgia, but wanted to be prepared for nonetheless.

US Embassy in Cuba closes as Tropical Storm Idalia nears

Monday 28 August 2023 18:15 , Graig Graziosi

The US Embassy in Cuba has closed its doors and will remain closed through Tuesday while Tropical Storm Idalia travels north toward the west coast of Florida.

“Tropical Storm Idalia is projected to develop into a Hurricane and pass over the western part of Cuba beginning today. This storm is expected to bring significant rainfall and wind that may result in life-threatening flooding, flash flooding, and storm surge,” embassy officials said in a statement. “Countrywide impacts are expected but the western provinces of Cuba are likely to feel more significant effects.”

The embassy announced its closure in a travel alert to Americans in Cuba, and advised them to prepare for possible disruptions to services like water and food availability due to the storm.

“U.S. citizens are advised to avoid beaches and coast lines and take shelter in safe locations away from low-lying areas and monitor weather updates,” the alert said. “It is advised to maintain several days of clean drinking water and food and make contact before, during, and after the storm with family members and loved ones.”

The embassy will close at 3pm on Monday, with officials noting that it may extend the closure if necessary.

Monday 28 August 2023 17:30 , Graig Graziosi

Florida officials begin ordering evacuations, opening shelters

Monday 28 August 2023 17:01 , Graig Graziosi

Communities on Florida’s west coast are being ordered to evacuate as Tropical Storm Idalia barrels north toward the state.

The storm is expected to strengthen as it hits the Gulf of Mexico, and forecasters believe it will make landfall in Florida as a Category 3 hurricane.

Some Tampa-area residents, including individuals living in parts of Manatee and Pasco counties, have been ordered to evacuate.

Officials in Manatee County, which is south of Tampa, said that the regions transit services would continue until wind speeds reached 45mph, after which busses will cease.

North of Tampa in Hernando County, mandatory evacuations will go into effect on Tuesday morning, while voluntary evacuations are ongoing. The county is opening its hurricane shelters today at noon.

A state of emergency has been declared for Pinellas County, to the city’s west as it prepares to open its shelters.

National Weather Service issues ‘life-threatening' storm surge warnings ahead of Storm Idalia

Monday 28 August 2023 16:34 , Graig Graziosi

The National Weather Service has issued storm surge warnings for western Florida in the wake of Storm Idalia, which is expected to make landfall in the Sunshine State on Wednesday as a Category 3 hurricane.

The NWS said that “life-threatening” storm surges along affected parts of Florida’s Gulf coast were likely. Those regions include the cities of Tampa as well as Big Bend.

Inundation from 7 to 11 feet is expected between the Chassahowitzka and Aucilla Rivers, and urban flash flooding is likely.

Monday 28 August 2023 16:11 , Graig Graziosi

Joe Biden approved an emergency declaration for the state of Florida on Monday after speaking with its governor, Ron DeSantis.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency said it has already deployed personnel and “assets” to Florida ahead of Storm Idalia. “FEMA’s National Response Coordination Center has also been fully activated to support any requests for federal assistance,” the White House said in a statement

Joe Biden and Ron DeSantis, potential 2024 rivals, prepare for hurricane’s arrival in Florida

Monday 28 August 2023 15:10 , Graig Graziosi

Joe Biden and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis reportedly spoke this morning to discuss Tropical Storm Idalia and its likely landfall in western Florida.

Mr Biden reportedly told the governor that “Florida will have his full support as they prepare for Idalia and its aftermath,” and said he was committed to providing continual assistance to the city of Jacksonville following a mass shooting there on Saturday.

Mr DeSantis is hoping to challenge Mr Biden in the 2024 presidential election, though the Republican governor is still trailing behind the party’s frontrunner, Donald Trump, by a significant margin.

White House: Biden and DeSantis spoke this morning. POTUS “said Florida will have his full support as they prepare for Idalia and its aftermath” and he “also expressed his commitment to ongoing support for the people of Jacksonville following the horrific shooting on Saturday.” — Philip Melanchthon Wegmann (@PhilipWegmann) August 28, 2023

Monday 28 August 2023 15:00 , Graig Graziosi

The Florida governor has asked residents to “have a plan and a stocked supply kit” as a state of emergency was declared for half of the state’s counties. READ MORE:

Live: Ron DeSantis holds briefing as Tropical Storm Idalia threatens Florida

Monday 28 August 2023 14:36 , Graig Graziosi

Monday 28 August 2023 14:00 , Stuti Mishra

Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website

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Hurricanes | Tropical Storm Idalia projected to become major…

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Hurricanes | madeline soto: stephan sterns charged with first-degree murder, hurricanes | tropical storm idalia projected to become major hurricane before hitting florida.

Editor’s Note: The Orlando Sentinel is making its coverage of Tropical Storm Idalia free to readers as a public service. 

Tropical Storm Idalia continued to grow in strength Monday expected to become a hurricane soon and threaten Florida’s Gulf Coast in the coming days with life-threatening storm surge and dangerous winds, according to the latest forecasts from the National Hurricane Center.

“This is going to be a major hurricane,” said Gov. Ron DeSantis from the state Emergency Operations Center in Tallahassee late Monday. “It’s likely to continue strengthening all the way until impact and it could have catastrophic storm surge in your area.”

It’s projected to grow into a Category 3 hurricane with 120 mph sustained winds and gusts up to 150 mph before making landfall while also producing storm surge up to 12 feet.

DeSantis on Monday expanded his executive order declaring a state of emergency to 46 counties, up from 33 on Saturday. In Central Florida, it now includes Seminole, Lake and Volusia counties, but not Orange or Osceola.

Though Metro Orlando is not predicted to bear the storm’s brunt, the signs of a coming storm were clear Monday. Local governments set up sand bag sites, grocery stores stacked bottled water and other supplies, school districts canceled after-school activities, and city and county officials urged residents to make preparations.

Sumter County is under a hurricane warning while Lake, Orange, Osceola, Polk and Seminole counties are all under a tropical storm warning. Volusia and Brevard counties are under a tropical storm watch.

Hurricane Idalia: Central Florida braces for impacts, but likely to avoid direct hit

President Biden on Monday approved an emergency declaration and ordered federal assistance in responding to the storm. DeSantis had submitted a request for aid Sunday night to the White House.

DeSantis urged all Floridians to prepare for the storm’s dangers.

“We’ve got to stop focusing on the cone and look at all the areas that could be affected,” DeSantis said, noting that forecasts for Hurricane Ian kept changing and shifting further southward in the days before the storm made landfall last year, devastating the Gulf Coast. “You have time today and know what you need to do.”

Florida Division of Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie said the storm surge and winds are one concern, but that effects can be far-reaching.

“You will see isolated isolated tropical-storm-generated tornadoes. Locally damaging wind gusts will be possible with more organized outer rain bands that move across the Florida peninsula Tuesday and Wednesday,” he said. “When we saw that, again in Hurricane Ian, the very first incident we had was an EF-0 tornado in Palm Beach County. So that was way far away from landfall when that happened.”

In its 11 p.m. advisory, the NHC said Idalia still had sustained winds of 70 mph with higher gusts and was located about 10 miles southwest of the western tip of Cuba and 230 miles southwest of the Dry Tortugas, heading north at 8 mph. Its tropical-storm-force winds extend out 150 miles from its center.

The latest forecast track brings the center of the storm into the Big Bend area of Florida by Wednesday morning.

“Rapid strengthening is predicted during the next day or so. Idalia could become a hurricane at any time, and is forecast to become a major hurricane by late Tuesday or Tuesday night,” forecasters said.

A tropical storm warning has been issued for the Florida east coast and the southeastern Georgia coast from Sebastian Inlet northward to Altamaha Sound.

Already Monday, officials in Pasco and Pinellas counties on Florida’s west coast issued evacuation orders for some residents, including those living in mobile homes and RVs or in low-lying and flood-prone areas, according to the Tampa Bay Times .

The counties under DeSantis’ emergency order are: Alachua, Baker, Bay, Bradford, Calhoun, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, Columbia, DeSoto, Dixie, Duval, Flagler, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Hardee, Hernando, Hillsborough, Lake, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Nassau, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor, Union, Volusia, and Wakulla counties.

Left to Right, City of Oviedo Public Works employees Alex Gonzalez stacks sandbags, as Andrew Shuttloefel, Craig Stauffeldt, and Fidel Canot, operate a sandbag-filling machine, in preparation for Tropical Storm Idalia, on Monday, August 28, 2023. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda)

Amy Ertel, fills up sandbags as the City of Oviedo opens a sandbag-filling location in preparation for Tropical Storm Idalia, on Monday, August 28, 2023. The city also has a sandbag-filling machine, that fills and sews the bags, helping save time and effort. Tropical storm Idalia intensified, and the National Hurricane Center predicted it would be a Category 3 before it reaches Florida. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/ Orlando Sentinel)

Teresa Mercedes, 66, gets a hug from Meals on Wheels Senior V.P. Wilda Belisle during a wellness visit to make sure she has all her essential needs in preparation for Tropical Storm Idalia at her Kissimmee apartment on August 28, 2023. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

Rafaela Cruz gets a wellness visit at her Kissimmee apartment from Meals on Wheels Senior V.P. Wilda Belisle, center, and Debora Foscolo from Instead Senior Care on Monday, August 28, 2023, to make sure she has all her essential needs in preparation for Tropical Storm Idalia. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

Orange County Mayor Jerry Deming gives an update on Orange County's storm readiness and preparations for Tropical Storm Idalia on Monday, August 28, 2023. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

Brian Adams removes umbrellas from the playground at St. Paul’s Catholic School in Leesburg on Monday, August 28, 2023, in preparation for Tropical Storm Idalia which is set to hit Florida’s west coast this week as a major hurricane. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)

Customers wait in line to pump gas at Sam’s Club in The Villages on Monday, August 28, 2023. Many are scrambling to garner supplies in preparation for Tropical Storm Idalia, set to hit Florida’s west coast this week as a major hurricane. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)

Customers pump gas at Sam’s Club in The Villages on Monday, August 28, 2023. Many are scrambling to garner supplies in preparation for Tropical Storm Idalia, set to hit Florida’s west coast this week as a major hurricane. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)

The City of Oviedo opens up a a sandbag-filling location in preparation for Tropical Storm Idalia, on Monday, August 28, 2023. The city also has a sandbag-filling machine, that fills and sews the bags, helping save time and effort. Tropical storm Idalia intensified, and the National Hurricane Center predicted it would be a Category 3 before it reaches Florida. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/ Orlando Sentinel)

Left to Right, City of Oviedo Public Works employees Andrew Shuttloefel, Craig Stauffeldt, and Fidel Canot, operate a sandbag-filling machine, in preparation for Tropical Storm Idalia, on Monday, August 28, 2023. Tropical storm Idalia intensified, and the National Hurricane Center predicted it would be a Category 3 before it reaches Florida. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/ Orlando Sentinel)

The City of Oviedo opens up a a sandbag-filling location in preparation for Tropical Storm Idalia, on Monday, August 28, 2023. The city also has a sandbag-filling machine, that fills and sews the bags, helping save time and effort. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/ Orlando Sentinel)

A hurricane warning is in effect for the Cuban province of Pinar del Rio and along the Florida coast from the middle of Longboat Key north to Indian Pass near Apalachicola that includes Tampa Bay. A tropical storm warning is in effect for the Dry Tortugas and on Florida’s Gulf Coast from Chokoloskee north to Longboat Key as well as west of Indian pass to Mexico Beach on the Panhandle. Tropical storm warnings also remain in effect for parts of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico including Cozumel and for Cuba’s Isle of Youth.

A hurricane watch runs on Florida’s Gulf Coast from Englewood to Longboat Key while a tropical storm watch is in effect for the lower Florida Keys west of the Seven Mile Bridge and from Sebastian Inlet on the east coast north to the South Santee River in South Carolina.

A storm surge warning is in effect for Florida’s Gulf Coast from Englewood north to Indian Pass including Tampa Bay with storm surge watches from Chokoloskee north to Englewood including Charlotte Harbor and on the Atlantic coast from the mouth of the St. Mary’s River to the South Santee River in South Carolina.

Storm surge was the driving force that led to the deadly effects of last year’s Hurricane Ian that made landfall in southwest Florida.

The NHC forecasts surge could be from 8-12 feet higher than normal for Florida’s Gulf Coast from the Aucilla River near Tallahassee south to Chassahowitzka in Citrus County, from 6-9 feet higher from Chassahowitzka south to the Anclote River near Tarpon Springs, and 4-7 feet from the Anclote River south to Longboat Key.

Smaller storm surge is expected further south in Southwest Florida and the Florida Keys as well as farther north and west along the Florida Panhandle.

“The deepest water will occur along the immediate coast in areas of onshore winds, where the surge will be accompanied by large and dangerous waves. Surge-related flooding depends on the relative timing of the surge and the tidal cycle, and can vary greatly over short distances,” according to the forecast.

DeSantis said the state was prepped for reaction once the storm hits including more than 400,000 gallons of fuel staged and ready to deploy plus the activation of eight urban search and rescue teams and all of the state’s 5,500 National Guardsmen.

In addition, he said the state has deployed 247 of Elon Musk’s SpaceX Starlink units to boost internet access to first responders in regions hit hardest by the storm.

“We have another 529 staged in Central Florida. Those are ready to be deployed in impacted areas and to EMCs across the state as the need may arise,” he said.

As of 6 p.m. Monday, 38 school districts have announced school closures over the next two days, along with 10 state colleges and six Florida universities. Tampa International Airport is closing midnight Monday and St. Pete Clearwater International Airport will close at 3 p.m. Tuesday, the governor said at the press conference.

In anticipation of Idalia’s arrival, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection has closed 65 state parks along the western portion of the state’s peninsula and in North Florida.

Those destinations vary from Caladesi Island State Park in Pinellas County to Big Shoals State Park Columbia, which is nearly in the projected path of the storm.

Also closed are Cedar Key Museum State Park in Levy County, Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park in Alachua County and Rainbow Springs State Park in Marion County. Go to FloridaStateParks.org/StormUpdates for a full list of closures.

The Florida Department of Transportation is securing the massive construction project along the Howard Frankland Bridge between Tampa and St. Petersburg across Tampa Bay.

The St. Johns River Water Management District is preparing for the northern half of its 18-county jurisdiction to be in the path of Idalia as a category one hurricane, bringing high wind and moderate rainfall.

The district has partially activated its emergency operations center, but as of noon Monday had not closed its parks and recreational lands.

Unlike Ian, the storm is expected to move quicker over the state, but rainfall totals could still bring 4-8 inches with some areas with as much as 12 inches across ports of Florida’s west coast and the Florida Panhandle as well as southeast Georgia and the eastern Carolinas that could lead to urban and flash flooding.

Central Florida’s SunRail commuter rail service will be shut down beginning Tuesday in anticipation of stormy weather. The passenger train runs 61 miles from DeBary in Volusia County through Seminole and Orange counties and into Osceola County south of Kissimmee.

Suspending service is a lengthy task of securing gate arms at 126 road crossings and storing SunRail trains. Resuming passenger service also requires considerable effort, including inspection of track conditions.

Melissa Watson, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Melbourne, said weather conditions will start to deteriorate Tuesday and into Wednesday as Idalia gets closer to landfall.

Central Florida residents should start making hurricane preparations and secure loose items outside of their homes and prepare for possible local floods and the possibility of tornadoes, according to meteorologists.

Watson said Orlando should be prepared to see strong wind threats between 39 mph and 57 mph, and rain, up to five inches with the heavier bands of rainfall.

“Exactly where the system goes, like the more eastward it shifts or the more westward it shifts, that will play a big factor into what our impacts will be here,” she said. “If it shifts eastward then those impacts will increase for east Central Florida.”

Kevin Spear and Amanda Rabines of the Sentinel staff contributed.

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Hurricane Idalia: is it safe to travel to Florida right now?

Here’s the latest travel advice including a live path tracker for the storm and whether walt disney world is closing.

H urricane Idalia made landfall in Florida as a Category 3 storm on Wednesday, August 30, with maximum sustained winds at an estimated 120mph, according to the US National Weather Service. The life-threatening storm then moved on to southern Georgia during the course of the day, and is expected to cross over to South Carolina and possibly towards Bermuda as it progresses.

The latest public advisory, issued at 2am local time (7am BST) on Thursday, August 31, has downgraded Idalia to a tropical storm. It has also removed the hurricane and storm warnings in previous advisories but there remains a tropical storm warning and storm surge watch in North Carolina. If you’re due to travel soon, here’s what you need to know.

Main photo: Lily Gumos, 11, kayaks with her French bulldog on Hurricane Idalia floodwater in the Florida city of St Pete Beach (Alamy)

Where is Hurricane Idalia right now and where is it heading?

At 8am local time (1pm BST) on Wednesday, August 30, the centre of the storm was near the Big Bend in northern Florida . Throughout the day, it moved in a north-northeasterly direction towards Georgia and South Carolina.

As of 2am local time (7am BST) on Thursday, August 31, the centre of the storm is at Litchfield by the Sea in South Carolina, about 80 miles up the coast from Charleston. The US National Weather Service predicts that it will continue moving northeast, along the coast of South Carolina and into North Carolina, before moving offshore into the Atlantic towards Bermuda.

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Hurricane Idalia made landfall in Florida as a Category 3 storm, a hurricane, but has weakened as it progressed inland. It has since been downgraded to a tropical storm. However, wind speeds are still high, with maximum sustained winds at an estimated 60 mph, with the effects of the storm extending up to 205 miles from the centre of the storm.

Is there a live tracker where I can follow Hurricane Idalia?

The US National Weather Service is issuing live updates on Hurricane Idalia. A map can be found here .

Is Walt Disney World closing for the hurricane?

Hurricane Idalia has now passed through northern Florida. There was limited impact on central Florida where theme parks such as Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort are located. Both theme parks are operating as normal but closely monitoring the weather. In some cases, certain rides may be closed due to the weather conditions.

Is it safe to travel to Florida during Hurricane Idalia?

In Florida, Hurricane Idalia mainly affected the northern parts of the state, where there were hurricane and storm surge warnings in place on August 30. These mean that people need to take precautions to protect life and property, and that the weather conditions are life-threatening. The warnnings have now been removed as the storm has moved on to South Carolina and significantly weakened.

However, you may still want to reconsider your travel plans if they involve the affected areas. Some areas are experiencing flooding, and the clean-up operation will have started. If you’re travelling to central or southern parts of Florida, you may experience high winds and heavy rain but these shouldn’t be life-threatening or dangerous. What the weather could affect is flights — you may end up being unexpectedly diverted or delayed if winds are too strong for landing or take-off.

• Caribbean hurricane season: when is it and how will it affect my holiday?

Can I get a refund if I cancel my holiday because of the hurricane?

You should speak to the company you’ve booked your holiday with in the first instance.

If you’re travelling to the affected areas during the hurricane or even immediately afterwards, elements of your trip may be cancelled already, in which case you should get a full refund. If you’ve booked your travel and accommodation separately, you may be able to negotiate to postpone your trip if only one or other elements of the booking are affected — otherwise you’ll need to turn to your travel insurance to recoup any costs.

If you’re travelling to an area that’s not affected by the hurricane, but may experience adverse weather because of it, you’re unlikely to get a refund if you want to cancel your trip.

• How will hurricanes affect my holiday?

Am I covered by my travel insurance?

Coverage for extreme weather varies from policy to policy but most travel insurance will provide some kind of cover. It’s best to check the fine print on your policy to see what you might be able to claim back. Typically it would include any expenses arising from disrupted or cancelled travel plans.

However, this is assuming you booked your break before Hurricane Idalia was named. If you made the booking after it’s been named, you’re unlikely to be covered by any insurance policies.

• Travel insurance: everything you need to know

Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here .

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Is it safe to travel to Florida as Hurricane Idalia hits the US state?

What you need to know as residents of the sunshine state are ordered to evacuate, article bookmarked.

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Tropical Storm Idalia, now officially classed as a hurricane , is hurtling towards the US state of Florida , where hundreds of residents have been ordered to leave their homes.

A state of emergency was issued in 46 of Florida ’s 67 counties, a wide patch that stretches across the northern half of the state from the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic Coast. Across this area, residents have been heading to shelters and loading up on sandbags.

Several counties are at risk of life-threatening floods , and Florida governor Ron DeSantis said of the evacuations in a press conference on 28 August: “We can rebuild someone’s home. You can’t unring the bell, though, if somebody stays in harm’s way and does battle with Mother Nature.”

Idalia has already brought misery to Cuba , where thousands have been evacuated from their homes while faced with heavy rain and flooding.

Those who have upcoming trips to Florida may well be wondering if it’s safe to visit the state right now. Here’s what we know so far.

Where will be affected by Hurricane Idalia?

After charting a path over the Gulf of Mexico, Idalia is expected to curve northeast toward the west coast of Florida before making landfall on Wednesday – before which it will “rapidly intensify into an extremely dangerous major hurricane”, according to the US National Hurricane Center.

Nearly the entire Gulf Coast – as well as Key West and the Lower Florida Keys – are under some form of hurricane, tropical storm and storm surge watches and warnings. Some of Florida’s largest cities, such as Tampa and Orlando, may well be affected. The US National Weather Service said that coastal areas as far south as the Florida Keys could see storm surges as Idalia approaches.

Can I fly into Florida?

The extreme weather is already causing disruption for airports. Tampa International Airport has now closed, and will remain shut until the hurricane passes – Thursday morning as been mooted as a possible opening time.

Southwest Florida International Airport, near Fort Myers, has not shared any closure plans but told USA Today that they are monitoring the weather.

Two other major airports – Miami International and Orlando International – have not announced any plans to close, and could end up being outside the hurricane’s main path.

A number of US airlines, including Delta, United and Southwest, are being more flexible with changes to bookings given the incoming storm. Speak to your airline to see where you stand.

The Independent has contacted major carriers flying out of the UK to the US for more information.

A Virgin Atlantic spokesperson confirmed that their Tampa flights are subject to cancellation due to the airport being closed, and customers travelling in the coming days are advised to check the status of their flight.

What is the latest government travel advice?

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) hasn’t issued any specific advice regarding Hurricane Idalia but it’s general advice regarding hurricanes states that people should:

• Monitor the progress of approaching storms on the US National Hurricane Center website
• Follow instructions from local authorities, including evacuation orders
• Visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website for information on preparing for extreme weather and evacuating, and for a list of disaster supplies that will help

The FCDO also advises that travellers ask their tour operator, airline and travel insurance provider what their terms and conditions are if plans are affected by extreme weather.

Visit Florida, the state’s tourism board, said that it is “currently monitoring” Idalia and that all visitors should watch the progress of the hurricane. The Independent has reached out for additional comment.

Can I cancel my holiday to Florida? Will I get a refund?

If you’re travelling to part of Florida unaffected by the hurricane and you cancel, it’s highly unlikely you will be able to claim a refund. However, speak to your airline and/or tour operator, who will be able to talk through your options. Given the extraordinary circumstances, holiday companies and airlines may be open to you changing your plans.

If you have booked a package holiday to areas affected by Idalia, you should be able to claim a full refund or rebook your trip as you are protected by the Package Travel Regulations, which stipulate customers are entitled to their money back if the performance of the holiday is “significantly impacted” by external factors.

Will I be protected by travel insurance?

As the FCDO has not issued a travel warning regarding the hurricane, cancellation costs won’t be covered by most providers. However, policies can vary, so make sure you check to see what your travel insurance covers.

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Hurricane Idalia: Airlines issue travel advisories, allow changes

Hurricane Idalia (National Hurricane Center - Atlantic)

As Hurricane Idalia inches closer to the Florida Gulf Coast, several airlines that service that region have issued travel advisories.

>> Read more trending news

The airlines have spelled out which routes are affected and if changes or cancelations are allowed.

For information concerning upcoming flights:

• American Airlines

The New York Times has some tips for what to do if you have travel plans during the storm. The paper says to download your airline’s app, check FlightAware the day of your trip to see delay and cancelation trends, and review the U.S. Department of Transportation cancelation and delay dashboard to see what the country’s main domestic airlines offer passengers.

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Tropical advisories issued for some Central Florida counties as Idalia continues to organize

ORLANDO, Fla. — Channel 9 meteorologists continue to monitor the tropics, and storm surge and hurricane watches have now been issued for parts of Florida.

▶ WATCH CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS

11 p.m. update:.

Idalia is a little stronger, as the forecast track has nudged a little further east, toward Central Florida.

Previous story:

Early evening forecast: Sunday, Aug. 27 (WFTV)

As of 5 p.m. Sunday, Sumter County is under a hurricane watch and Lake and Polk County are under a tropical storm watch.

Meteorologist George Waldenberger said the hurricane watch extends from Sumter County to parts of Florida’s Gulf Coast, from Englewood to Indian Pass, including Tampa Bay.

Strom surge, hurricane watches issued for Tropical Storm Idalia (WFTV/WFTV)

Read: Storm surge, hurricane watches issued for parts of Florida ahead of Tropical Storm Idalia

Idalia continues to organize, meandering between Western Cuba and the Yucatan Peninsula, forecast to move into the Gulf tomorrow and strengthen into a hurricane by Tuesday morning.

All followed by a forecast landfall between the Tampa Bay area and Apalachicola by Wednesday morning forecast as a Category 2 storm.

Expect gusty squally passing storms developing for Tuesday with a risk of tornadoes, continuing into Wednesday as Idalia makes its closest pass.

Tropical advisories issued for parts of Florida ahead of Tropical Storm Idalia (WFTV/WFTV)

Read: DeSantis warns Floridians to be vigilant ahead of Tropical Storm Idalia impacts

Watching the risk of flooding in areas of heavy rain that set up.

According to the National Hurricane Center, a storm surge watch has been issued for the Gulf Coast of Florida from Chokoloskee to Indian Pass, including Tampa Bay.

A hurricane watch has been issued for the Gulf Coast of Florida from Englewood to Indian Pass including Tampa Bay.

A tropical storm watch has been issued for the Gulf Coast of Florida, south of Englewood to Chokoloskee, and for the Dry Tortugas.

Hurricane season names These are the names for storms that develop during the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season. (WFTV.com News Staff)

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August 30, 2023 - Idalia makes Florida landfall

By Elizabeth Wolfe, Liz Enochs, Leinz Vales , Adrienne Vogt , Mike Hayes, Elise Hammond and Tori B. Powell , CNN

DeSantis' advice to Florida residents as Idalia nears landfall: "Just hunker down until it gets past you"

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis urged Florida residents to heed emergency officials' warnings to take cover as Hurricane Idalia nears the state's Gulf Coast.

"This thing's powerful. If you're inside, just hunker down until it gets past you. You don't want to be messing around with these winds. There's going to be things flying all over the place," he said at a news conference Wednesday morning.

"We just hope everybody stays safe. Don't put your life at risk by doing anything dumb at this point," he added.

DeSantis said that while residents are urged to stay inside and off the streets as Idalia passes over the state, officials will begin search and rescue missions as soon as it's safe to do so.

When those efforts begin, Florida has the following resources ready to go:

• Eight urban search and rescue teams
• 33 ambulance strike teams
• 5,500 national guardsmen

The Coast Guard is also on stand by should they be needed, DeSantis said.

Rare extreme wind warning issued as Idalia comes ashore 

From CNN's Eric Zerkel and Mary Gilbert

A rare extreme wind warning has been issued for parts of Florida’s Dixie and Taylor counties as Idalia's eyewall — the ring of most intense winds that surrounds the hurricane's calm eye — comes ashore. 

The warning is issued when extremely dangerous, life-threatening sustained winds of 115 mph or more can occur.  

“Treat these imminent extreme winds as if a tornado was approaching and move immediately to the safe room in your shelter. Take action now to protect your life!” warned the National Weather Service office in Tallahassee.  

NOW: Florida Gov. DeSantis is giving an update on Idalia

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is now providing an update on Hurricane Idalia.

The storm has intensified into a dangerous Category 4 hurricane ahead of its expected landfall on Florida's Gulf Coast Wednesday morning.

Florida resident riding out Idalia to help elderly neighbors says Cedar Key will soon be "unrecognizable"

As Hurricane Idalia has intensified into a Category 4 hurricane, residents like Cedar Key's Michael Bobbitt decided to ride out the storm to help those who defied the warnings to evacuate ahead of the storm's landfall.

"I stayed behind so that I could help some of the older and infirm people that just refused to leave," Bobbitt told CNN's Phil Mattingly. "Happy to report I was able to get two of my elderly neighbors to finally leave. They made it out just before, I believe, it's probably too unsafe to be on the road at all now."

Bobbitt, a Cedar Key resident who recently lost power due to the storm, noted what he described as an "unprecedented level of surge" since he's lived in the area.

"We're starting to see an almost apocalyptic scene here," he said. "The gulf is rising up to swallow up the boat ramp and Dock Street, where all of the popular tourist restaurants and shops are."

"We're only just now starting to feel the really horrific effects. And I think four hours from now, Cedar Key will be unrecognizable," Bobbit added.

Cedar Key is located in Levy County, Florida. It is about 50 miles southwest of Gainesville and is situated on the Gulf of Mexico coast in the northern part of the state.

What it's like in St. Petersburg as Hurricane Idalia nears Florida's Gulf Coast

It's near dawn in St. Petersburg, Florida, and heavy rain and flooding from Hurricane Idalia are moving into the Tampa Bay area.

Idalia, a powerful Category 4 storm, is now about 60 miles west of Cedar Key and 90 miles south of Tallahassee as it continues on its path toward Florida's Big Bend, according to the National Hurricane Center.

But while the storm is forecast to make landfall far north of the Tampa Bay area, coastal regions further south, like St. Petersburg, are still reporting severe storm surge.

Here's a look at St. Petersburg this morning:

Nearly 60,000 customers in the dark ahead of Idalia's landfall in Florida

From CNN's Melissa Alonso

There are nearly 60,000 customers without power in Florida as Hurricane Idalia intensifies into a Category 4 hurricane, according to poweroutage.com. 

As of 5:45 a.m. ET, the bulk of the outages are in the Big Bend region of the state. This includes Taylor, Dixie and Levy Counties. 

How rare are Category 4 landfalls in Florida?

From CNN's Eric Zerkel

Hurricane Idalia is on track to make landfall as a Category 4 in Florida's Big Bend Wednesday morning.

A Category 4 landfall in this region would be unprecedented, but not across the entire hurricane-prone state.

If it maintains its intensity, Idalia would become the 13th Category 4 hurricane to make landfall in Florida since 1851. Hurricane Ian was the last. That storm roared ashore in Cayo Costa, Florida, with winds of 150 mph on September 28, 2022.

Only four hurricanes have made landfall in the continental US as Category 5 hurricanes, three of which did so in Florida.

Tornado watch issued for parts of Florida and Georgia as Idalia's rain bands move across the area

A tornado watch is now in effect for nearly 12 million people across central and northern Florida and southeast Georgia.

Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville and Gainesville in Florida, and Savannah, Georgia are included the watch, which runs until at least 3 p.m. ET.

Rain bands from Hurricane Idalia bring the threat of a few tornadoes Wednesday morning into the afternoon. Weak and short-lived tornadoes are often associated with the outer bands of landfalling tropical systems.

Idalia's storm surge just set a new record for water levels in Tampa Bay

From CNN's Brandon Miller

Hurricane Idalia is expected to bring significant surge between 4 and 5 feet into Tampa Bay on Wednesday morning — and it has already set a new record for water levels in the Bay.

Water  levels are nearing 4 feet  (specifically 3.91 feet at 5:30 a.m. ET), and they are still rising, even as the tide should be lowering, thanks to the push of Idalia’s winds into the Bay. 

This eclipses the previous high water mark of 3.79 feet from Tropical Storm Eta in 2020.

Storm surge is also building at other locations around Florida’s Gulf Coast. Clearwater Beach is  experiencing storm surge  between 5 and 6 feet and also nearing a record water level at that location. Cedar Key is also reporting more than 5 feet of surge and the  water level is rising quickly , despite a lowering tide.  

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