Florida Braces for Impact as Hurricane Idalia Strengthens

Photo: NBC 2 News

All eyes are on the Gulf of Mexico as Hurricane Idalia approaches the Florida coast. Idalia, the 9th named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, strengthened into a category 1 hurricane this morning around 5AM EDT.

It is expected to undergo rapid intensification, likely growing into a category 3 hurricane tonight. Landfall is currently forecasted to be within the Big Bend region of the state tomorrow morning around 7AM EDT.

The state is already covered in all types of tropical watches and warnings, with already 22 counties having issued evacuation orders, whether they be voluntary or mandatory.

Recent model runs show a strong likelihood of heavy rain, deadly storm surge, and dangerous winds. The worst impacts are expected to be around the Big Bend area of the state extending down to Tampa.

Tropical storm force winds (39+ mph) are expected to arrive starting tonight with winds picking up as the storm approaches landfall. Heavy rainfall and storm surge will leave many areas underwater with some anticipating up to 12 feet of surging waters. Many areas could be left inundated by Hurricane Idalia, especially in Big Bend extending down to Homosassa Springs.

After Idalia makes landfall and moves through the Florida panhandle, it will continue on to dump heavy rain on Georgia and the Carolinas. Michiana and Indiana in general will not see any rainfall from this tropical system.