Tropical Storm Idalia is gaining strength in the Gulf of Mexico and poses a serious threat to Florida and the southeastern U.S. With the potential to escalate into a hurricane, Idalia could be the first Atlantic hurricane to hit the U.S. this year. As authorities prepare for the worst, what should residents expect, and how is the state gearing up for this looming crisis?
By John Adams
The Storm’s Trajectory
As of 5 a.m. ET on Monday, Tropical Storm Idalia was stationary about 125 miles off the western tip of Cuba, with sustained winds at 65 mph. Forecasters predict that the storm will move north toward Florida in the coming days, intensifying in the warm Gulf of Mexico waters. A hurricane watch is in effect for a wide swath of Florida’s west coast, including Tampa Bay.
State of Emergency Declared
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for 33 counties anticipating the storm. Authorities have begun preparing storm response resources, including high-water vehicles and boats. The Florida Division of Emergency Management is advising residents to keep their gas tanks at least half-full in case of evacuations.
The Threat of Storm Surge
Jamie Rhome, the National Hurricane Center’s deputy director, emphasized the vulnerability of the Florida Panhandle to storm surge. “It will not take a strong system or a direct hit to produce significant storm surge,” he said. This adds another layer of concern, especially for low-lying areas and coastal communities.
Wider Impact on the Southeastern U.S.
While Florida is the primary focus, other states in the southeastern U.S., such as Georgia and the Carolinas, could also be affected. Heavy rainfall is expected midweek and later, regardless of how strong Idalia becomes. A separate hurricane, Franklin, is active in the western Atlantic but is not expected to make a direct hit on the continental U.S.
Tropical Storm Idalia serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability and potential devastation of hurricane season. With the storm expected to make landfall as early as Tuesday morning, residents are urged to take all necessary precautions. As the state prepares for what could be the first Atlantic hurricane to hit the U.S. this year, the nation watches with bated breath.