Forecasters predict Tropical Storm Idalia may potentially become a hurricane and head towards the United States.

Tropical Storm Idalia has formed in the Gulf of Mexico and is predicted to potentially make landfall in the southern U.S. as a hurricane, according to the National Hurricane Center. As of Sunday evening, the storm was located about 95 miles east-southeast of Cozumel, Mexico, with sustained winds of 40 mph. Forecasters anticipate Idalia will become a hurricane by Tuesday and then curve northeast towards the west coast of Florida, potentially reaching wind speeds of up to 100 mph, making it a Category 2 hurricane.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis acknowledged the uncertainty in the forecast during a Sunday afternoon briefing. He highlighted the warm waters in the Gulf of Mexico, which could provide additional fuel for the storm to increase in speed. DeSantis emphasized the need for residents along the western coast of Florida to stay vigilant and pay attention to the storm’s progress.

The western coast of Florida is particularly susceptible to storm surges when tropical storms or hurricanes approach. Jamie Rhome, deputy director of the National Hurricane Center, warned that even a weak system or indirect impact could result in significant storm surge. Areas from Fort Myers to the Panhandle need to be on high alert.

In Cedar Key, a fishing village that extends into the Gulf of Mexico, concern is mounting about the potential storm surge. Captain A.J. Brown, a fishing guide, expressed worries about a surge of 2 to 5 feet, which could result in significant flooding downtown if it reaches the higher end of that range. Similarly, at the popular Bridge Tender Inn in Bradenton Beach, there are concerns about the structural integrity of their tiki bar tent, which might need to be taken down if the storm intensifies.

However, southwest Florida, which was hit by deadly Hurricane Ian last year, is not expected to be directly affected by Idalia. Mexico’s National Meteorological Service issued warnings of intense rainfall and strong winds in the Yucatan Peninsula, urging citizens to stay alert.

Authorities in Florida are urging residents to ensure their vehicle gas tanks are at least half-full in case of evacuation. The Florida Division of Emergency Management emphasized the importance of being prepared for power outages, particularly in the Tallahassee region, where many trees and power lines are likely to be affected.

As a precaution, 1,100 National Guard members have been mobilized in Florida, equipped with 2,400 high-water vehicles and 12 aircraft for rescue and recovery efforts. Thirty-three Florida counties are currently under a state of emergency.

The 2023 hurricane season was initially forecasted to be less active, but the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration recently revised their predictions due to extremely warm ocean temperatures. The season lasts until November 30, with August and September typically experiencing the highest activity. While the U.S. East Coast has been spared from cyclones so far this year, Tropical Storm Hilary caused significant damage and disruptions in Mexico, California, Nevada, and neighboring areas earlier this month.

Overall, residents along the western coast of Florida are urged to stay informed and prepared for potential impacts from Tropical Storm Idalia, which could intensify into a hurricane in the coming days.

Original Story at www.latimes.com – 2023-08-27 22:45:47