Tropical Storm Idalia Update: Florida Evacuations Start, Tampa Airport Closes
The Tropical Storm Idalia update shows that it is on track to escalate into a hurricane by Monday, posing a significant threat of perilous storm surge, high winds, and heavy rainfall to Florida's Gulf Coast from Tuesday through Wednesday, potentially reaching Category 3.
The storm's anticipated rapid intensification before reaching the Big Bend region of Florida's coastline has sparked heightened concerns, according to CNN.
This region is susceptible to storm surges, with up to 12 feet projections.
Idalia's impact is anticipated to extend from the Florida Keys to parts of the western coast, starting as early as Tuesday.
Wind speeds will rise across the Florida Keys and southwestern coast by Tuesday morning, followed by gusty winds spanning much of Florida, including inland areas, by Tuesday night as the storm's outer bands extend inland.
As Wednesday progresses, the wind, rain, and storm surge are expected to intensify further as the powerful hurricane makes landfall along Florida's Gulf Coast.
A broad area of Florida is projected to be affected by Idalia, with the most severe impacts predicted from Tampa northwards through the Big Bend area and into portions of the Panhandle.
Conditions in these areas are set to deteriorate rapidly leading up to Wednesday morning's landfall.
READ NEXT: Tropical Storm Idalia Path and Tracker
Gov. Ron DeSantis Urges Residents in Flood Zones To Evacuate
Florida officials are issuing urgent advisories for residents in low-lying regions along the Gulf Coast to evacuate ahead following Tropical Storm Idalia update, forecasting storm surge, per NBC News.
Governor DeSantis announced that tolls will be waived starting at 4 am to facilitate smoother evacuations for families across the state.
Additionally, the state has amassed 400,000 gallons of fuel, primarily designated for evacuation routes.
DeSantis emphasized that evacuees don't necessarily need to leave the state or travel long distances; the key is to escape the path of potential storm surge.
He encouraged those in vulnerable areas to seek refuge in higher-ground structures to ride out the storm safely.
In charge of the state's emergency management, Kevin Guthrie underscored the importance of utilizing shelters and hotels for those in need.
Guthrie and the governor cautioned that power outages are highly probable in certain areas, advising individuals reliant on electricity for survival to prioritize evacuation.
Tampa, Florida Airport To Shut Before Tropical Storm Idalia Becomes Major Hurricane
Tampa International Airport is taking proactive measures in response to the impending threat posed by Tropical Storm Idalia, their website said.
Commercial operations at the airport are set to be suspended starting from 12:01 am on Tuesday.
The airport will remain closed during this time, allowing for comprehensive preparations across its airfield and terminals.
These preparations encompass securing jet bridges, ground equipment, and aircraft, ensuring readiness for the anticipated landfall of Idalia as a potentially significant hurricane on Wednesday.
While some cargo and private aircraft operations might continue overnight, all air traffic will halt by 7 am on Tuesday morning.
During the closure period, which includes the Main Terminal and Airsides, the airport will not be accessible to visitors and is not equipped to serve as a shelter.
Tampa International Airport intends to resume operations on Thursday morning, with post-storm damage assessments commencing once the threat from the storm subsides.
The reopening process will be closely coordinated with partners, considering road safety, facility readiness, and staffing levels.
Any adjustments to the reopening timeline will depend on future Tropical Storm Idalia update and will be communicated promptly to the public.
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Written by: Bert Hoover
WATCH: Tropical Storm Idalia predicted to make landfall in Florida as hurricane - From WFFA