Hurricane Idalia update: Two fatalities reported as it moves across southeast.

Hurricane Idalia Strikes​ Florida’s Big Bend Region

Hurricane Idalia has made a powerful impact as it made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region on Wednesday⁣ morning. This intense storm has unleashed a series of floods⁢ and strong ⁣winds that are expected to affect ‍a staggering 46‌ counties⁣ across the Sunshine State.

Warnings and‌ Impacts

Storm ⁣surge warnings ⁢are currently ⁣in effect for Englewood north to Indian Pass in Florida, including Tampa Bay. Additionally, hurricane warnings have been issued for Tampa Bay and the middle of Longboat Key northward to Indian Pass.

Idalia Path Tracker: Watch Live to Stay Informed

As we closely ⁢monitor Hurricane Idalia’s path, it is crucial to stay updated on its current location⁤ and where it is projected to make landfall.

Tragic Losses

Tragically, ‌two lives have⁢ already been claimed by this devastating hurricane. In ​Pasco County, Florida, a 40-year-old man lost his life in a weather-related incident. The driver, who was traveling ⁣in inclement weather and at excessive speed, lost control of ⁢his vehicle and collided with a tree.

In Alachua County, another man, aged ⁤59, also lost his life due to ⁤the storm. He veered off the road in extremely rainy conditions and crashed into a tree line.

Areas at Risk

Several areas are at high risk of “life-threatening inundation” caused by‍ rising⁤ water from the coastline. Cedar Key, Florida, has already experienced a heavy storm surge that has destroyed‍ trees, wildlife, and homes. Videos from the eye of Idalia show power lines exploding and cars driving through ‌heavy rain.

Tampa Bay is also facing rapidly rising water levels, with reports of homes ​along Bayshore Boulevard being flooded. Keaton ⁢Beach, where the hurricane made landfall, witnessed extremely⁤ high winds.

Steinhatchee, a Gulf Coast community, is currently grappling with significant flooding, with water levels almost ⁢covering buildings.

Idalia’s Impact and ⁤Future Path

Idalia made landfall in ‌Florida as a Category 3 hurricane, with maximum sustained winds of 125 miles per hour.‌ However, as⁣ of 11:26 a.m., the⁣ National Hurricane Center reported that the winds have weakened to around 90 miles per hour, placing it in the Category 1 range.

After striking Florida, the center of the hurricane has now made landfall in Georgia. It is expected to ⁢continue its journey into the Carolinas on Wednesday and Thursday, gradually losing‍ strength. Georgia and South⁢ Carolina have issued storm surge or hurricane warnings for various coastal areas.

Precautions and Evacuations

Evacuation⁢ orders have been recommended in 23 counties. Experts have also warned of storm surges as high as 11 feet in northwestern Florida and the Panhandle.

Storm surges are ⁢responsible for nearly half of all hurricane-related fatalities, according to the NOAA, and are the primary reason⁣ behind evacuation efforts. It is crucial to prioritize safety and follow evacuation orders.

Once the initial storm passes, Governor Ron DeSantis (R-FL) has assured residents that search-and-rescue ‌operations⁢ will commence. He has urged everyone to seek shelter,⁤ avoid ⁤going outside during the ‌storm, and refrain from driving on flooded streets.

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