As tropical storm Idalia intensifies, Florida braces for the imminent landfall. The storm, currently wreaking havoc in western Cuba, is predicted to become a major hurricane by Monday, Reuters reported.
The Miami-based National Hurricane Center reports that Idalia is moving northwards, with maximum sustained winds of 70 mph. Approximately 14 million Florida residents are currently under hurricane and tropical storm warnings.
Authorities emphasized the danger posed by surging seawater driven inland by high winds, especially in low-lying coastal regions. Storm surge warnings were posted for hundreds of miles of Gulf Coast shoreline, spanning from Sarasota to Indian Pass.
“Buckle up for this one,” cautioned Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in a Monday press conference. He urged Floridians to prepare for the potentially hazardous conditions.
Forecasters predict Idalia to reach Category 3 hurricane status by Wednesday when it is expected to make landfall in Florida. Residents have been warned to anticipate torrential rains, strong winds, and life-threatening storm surges.
A state of emergency has been declared for 46 Florida counties. Some 5,500 National Guard troops have been mobilized, and thousands of electricity workers are on standby to aid in power restoration after the storm passes.
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