By The newspaper
Updated: Aug 30, 2023, 02:27 AM EDT Published: Aug 30, 2023, 00:38 AM EDT
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued a warning, emphasizing that Idalia could make landfall on the north Florida coast, strengthening as a Category 4 storm.
According to the latest NHC announcement, Storm Idalia, labeled “an extremely dangerous hurricane,” is expected to target the region known as Big Bend.
As Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis did on Tuesday, the center has issued a strong recommendation that people residing in the potentially affected area evacuate as soon as possible.
Residents in the projected path of Hurricane Idalia are urged to heed evacuation orders to ensure their safety, the NHA recommended.
It should be remembered that the NHC website provides essential information and guidance to help individuals and families prepare for the imminent impact of the storm.
11PM EDT 29 Aug: #Idalia forecast to become an extremely dangerous Category 4 hurricane at landfall in Florida Big Bend region with catastrophic storm surge inundation. Residents should heed advice & evacuation orders by local officials in these areas.
https://t.co/y75tVkKVK7 pic.twitter.com/JqIpmLFayG
— National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) August 30, 2023
The NHC forecast predicts that Hurricane Idalia will continue on its northward track and its center will reach the coast of Big Bend during early Wednesday morning. After making landfall in Florida, the storm is forecast to move toward the coasts of Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina.
The NHC highlights the potential for “catastrophic damage” following the arrival of Hurricane Idalia as a Category 4 hurricane. The impact could include “destruction of buildings, uprooted trees, widespread power outages and disruptions to water supplies” that they could stretch out for weeks or even months.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has urged residents in areas at risk of being hit by Hurricane Idalia to evacuate immediately. More than 1.6 million people have received evacuation orders in anticipation of the hurricane’s arrival.
Here is a brief guide to prepare for the arrival of Hurricane Idalia, in order to avoid or minimize the danger, and take measures, such as creating an emergency kit for storms.
Keep reading:
Idalia strengthens into a Category 2 hurricane as it approaches Florida
· More than 1.6 million people in Florida have orders to evacuate their homes due to Hurricane Idalia