sted, with an above-average number of storms predicted. The agency warned that the Gulf Coast and Southeastern United States could be particularly vulnerable this year.
As Tropical Storm Idalia and Hurricane Franklin continue to intensify, residents along the Gulf coast and Florida are bracing for potential impacts. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has urged residents to prepare for “major impacts” as Hurricane Idalia is expected to make landfall as a major hurricane in the southern U.S. The storm is currently off the coast of Cuba and is forecasted to become a dangerous major hurricane over the northeastern Gulf of Mexico by early Wednesday.
The National Hurricane Center has issued warnings of “life-threatening storm surge and dangerous winds” for portions of Florida. Along a vast stretch of Florida’s west coast, up to 11 feet of ocean water could surge onshore, raising fears of destructive flooding. Tampa Bay is also at risk of a 4-7 foot storm surge, including downtown Tampa at the river walk.
While Hurricane Franklin has strengthened into a powerful Category 4 storm with sustained winds of 130 mph, it is not expected to directly impact the U.S. East Coast. However, it could cause “life-threatening surf and rip current conditions” along the coast and is already affecting Bermuda.
Florida emergency officials have mobilized resources in preparation for the storms. The state has activated 1,100 National Guard members and has high-water vehicles and aircraft available for rescue and recovery efforts. Residents have been advised to keep their vehicle gas tanks at least half-full in case of evacuation.
As the Atlantic hurricane season gets into full swing, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has warned that this year’s season will be busier than initially forecasted. The Gulf Coast and Southeastern United States are expected to be at higher risk for storms.
As Tropical Storm Idalia and Hurricane Franklin continue to develop, residents in the affected areas are urged to stay informed and follow the guidance of local authorities.Tropical Storm Idalia is intensifying off the coast of Cuba and is expected to make landfall in the southern U.S. as a major hurricane, according to the National Hurricane Center. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has warned residents to prepare for “major impacts” on the Gulf coast. Idalia is forecasted to become a hurricane later on Monday and a “dangerous major hurricane” over the northeastern Gulf of Mexico by early Wednesday. The storm could reach Florida’s Gulf coast on Wednesday, bringing with it life-threatening storm surge and dangerous winds.
Meanwhile, Hurricane Franklin has strengthened into the first major hurricane of the Atlantic season. As of Monday morning, it had sustained winds of 130 mph, making it a powerful Category 4 storm. While there are no coastal warnings or watches posted about Franklin, it is expected to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions along the U.S. East Coast. Swells generated by Franklin are already affecting Bermuda.
In Florida, there are concerns about the potential storm surge caused by Idalia. Up to 11 feet of ocean water could surge onshore along a vast stretch of Florida’s west coast, leading to destructive flooding. Tampa Bay is at risk of a 4-7 foot storm surge, including downtown Tampa. The western coast of Florida is particularly vulnerable to storm surges, and even a weak system or a near miss could produce significant storm surge.
Florida emergency officials have urged residents to keep their vehicle gas tanks at least half-full in case of evacuation. The state has mobilized 1,100 National Guard members and has high-water vehicles and aircraft ready for rescue and recovery efforts. Thirty-three Florida counties are currently under a state of emergency.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has recently revised its forecast for the 2023 hurricane season, predicting it to be far busier than initially expected due to extremely warm ocean temperatures. The hurricane season runs through November 30, with August and September typically being the peak months.
What precautions should residents in the vulnerable areas take to ensure their safety in the face of these potentially dangerous storms
For potentially major impacts. The state of Florida has already taken steps to prepare for the storms, mobilizing resources and activating the National Guard.
The National Hurricane Center has issued warnings of life-threatening storm surges and dangerous winds for portions of Florida, particularly along the Gulf Coast. Some areas could see ocean water surges of up to 11 feet, which raises concerns about destructive flooding. Tampa Bay is also at risk, with a potential 4-7 foot storm surge.
Hurricane Franklin, although a powerful Category 4 storm with sustained winds of 130 mph, is not expected to directly impact the East Coast of the United States. However, it could cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions, and it has already begun affecting Bermuda.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has revised its initial forecast and now predicts an above-average number of storms this hurricane season. The Gulf Coast and Southeastern United States are expected to be particularly vulnerable.
Residents in the affected areas are advised to stay informed and follow the guidance of local authorities. It is important to be prepared and take precautions to ensure safety in the face of these potentially dangerous storms.
Stay safe everyone, it’s important to take these storms seriously and be prepared for the worst. 🌪️💨💦
Carlos: It’s unbelievable how active this hurricane season has been so far. Praying for the safety of those in the path of these storms. 🙏🌀
Wow, it’s important to keep monitoring the storms closely and stay updated with official advisories. Safety should always be the top priority during hurricane season. 🌩️💦