Idalia intensifies into hurricane, poses threat to Florida coast: Live updates

Tropical Storm Idalia Strengthens to Hurricane as it Nears Florida Coast

Overview

Tropical Storm Idalia is rapidly gaining strength near Cuba and is expected to become a dangerous Category 3 hurricane before making landfall in Florida. The National Hurricane Center has issued hurricane watches along the Gulf Coast of Florida and evacuation orders have been issued. Idalia is predicted to bring “life-threatening storm surge, hurricane force winds, and scattered flash and urban flooding” to parts of the west coast of Florida and the Florida Panhandle. Florida officials, including Governor Ron DeSantis, are urging residents in low-lying areas to evacuate and seek shelter on higher ground.

Tampa Residents Fearful After Hurricane Ian

Residents in Tampa, still recovering from the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian the previous year, are taking the threat of Idalia seriously. Many residents have stocked up on supplies and sandbag distribution locations have been inundated with demand. Last year, Hurricane Ian caught many residents off guard as it rapidly strengthened and changed course, resulting in numerous fatalities. The memories of this tragedy are still fresh in the minds of Tampa residents, prompting concerns about whether to stay and ride out the storm or evacuate.

Governor DeSantis Urges Residents to Move Inland

Governor Ron DeSantis is urging residents in flood zones along the Gulf Coast to move inland ahead of Idalia‘s storm surge. The tolls on evacuation routes will be waived to facilitate the safe evacuation of families. The state has also stockpiled 400,000 gallons of fuel, prioritizing its distribution along evacuation routes. DeSantis emphasizes the importance of getting people out of harm’s way and encourages them to take advantage of shelters and hotels. Power outages are expected, and those who rely on power for survival are strongly advised to evacuate.

Georgia and Florida Universities Cancel Classes

Universities in the Tampa and Florida State areas, including the University of South Florida, the University of Tampa, and Florida State University, have canceled classes ahead of Idalia‘s expected landfall. Students in St. Petersburg will be relocated to the Tampa campus if an evacuation order is issued. The University of Tampa will communicate separately with residential students about evacuation plans.

Florida Takes Precautions with Biden’s Approval

President Joe Biden has approved Florida’s pre-landfall declaration, requested by Governor DeSantis. The declaration allows the state to request federal assistance in responding to the hurricane. Governor DeSantis has activated resources across the state, including 5,500 National Guardsmen, 200,000 gallons of fuel, and seven urban search and rescue teams. Despite these preparations, DeSantis warns residents that power outages are inevitable and urges them to make the necessary preparations.

Pinellas County Issues Mandatory Evacuation

Pinellas County has issued a mandatory evacuation order for residents living in low-lying areas due to the potential for life-threatening storm surge. The evacuation order affects 338,000 people and includes residents in mobile homes and residential healthcare facilities. Evacuation of healthcare facilities will begin immediately. Residents are urged to evacuate to higher ground beyond Zone B.

Tampa International Airport to Temporarily Close

Tampa International Airport will close ahead of Idalia‘s expected landfall as a Category 3 hurricane. The closure will allow the airport and its partners to secure the airfield, terminals, and aircraft ahead of the storm. Some cargo and private aircraft operations may continue overnight, but all air traffic will cease by 7 a.m. Tuesday morning.

Conclusion

As Tropical Storm Idalia strengthens into a hurricane and approaches the Florida coast, residents are taking precautions and preparing for potentially devastating impacts. With memories of Hurricane Ian still fresh, many are fearful of a repeat of the tragedy. Governor DeSantis and other officials are urging residents in flood zones to evacuate and seeking shelter on higher ground. Universities in the Tampa and Florida State areas have canceled classes, and airports are temporarily closing to ensure the safety of passengers and aircraft. Federal assistance has been approved, and resources are being mobilized to respond to the hurricane. Residents are advised to make the necessary preparations, as power outages are expected and the storm’s impact is likely to be severe.