Hurricane Idalia Expected to Make Landfall on Florida's Big Bend Coast

Category 3 Hurricane with Potential for Catastrophic Storm Surge

Landfall Expected Wednesday; Life-Threatening Winds and Flooding Likely

Hurricane Idalia, currently a Category 3 storm, is expected to make landfall on the Big Bend coast of Florida adjacent to Apalachee Bay on Wednesday. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) warns of life-threatening storm surge winds and flooding, with a potential storm surge of 10 to 15 feet.

Idalia briefly strengthened into an extremely dangerous Category 4 hurricane over the Gulf of Mexico early Wednesday, but has since weakened slightly. The storm is expected to maintain its Category 3 status or strengthen as it approaches the Florida coast.

The NHC advises residents in the Big Bend region to prepare for the worst-case scenario. Evacuations are recommended for those in low-lying areas, and all residents should secure their homes and prepare an emergency plan.