Hurricane Idalia slammed into Florida’s Big Bend region near Keaton Beach, announcing its arrival just before 8 a.m. Eastern Time. Initially categorized as a formidable Category 4 hurricane, this powerful storm was downgraded to a Category 3 but remained an “extremely dangerous” force to be reckoned with.
At the time of landfall, Hurricane Idalia boasted maximum sustained winds of 125 mph, unleashing higher gusts as it made its presence felt along the Florida coastline.
One of the most concerning aspects of this hurricane’s arrival was the looming threat of storm surge. Experts warned that the damage from the surging waters could extend a staggering 200 miles along Florida’s west coast, reaching past the Tampa Bay area. The Big Bend region of the state, in particular, faced the grim prospect of enduring storm surges measuring between 12 to 16 feet.
As Hurricane Idalia continues to unleash its fury upon Florida, residents and emergency services remain on high alert, working tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of those in its path. The situation is fluid, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Incredible #Idalia storm surge 6’ and counting here at Cedar Key, FL pic.twitter.com/8MzaHJpWce
— Jim Cantore (@JimCantore) August 30, 2023
Hurricane #Idalia is making landfall as a strong Category 3 Hurricane.
The State Emergency Response Team stands ready to deploy search & rescue and power crews to impacted areas as soon as it is safe to do so. Follow @FLSERT for updates. pic.twitter.com/09S4iWwowm
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) August 30, 2023
Water as far as the eye can see! #Idalia Cedar Key, FL pic.twitter.com/7D6rXfMMax
— Jim Cantore (@JimCantore) August 30, 2023
Wicked western eyewall in Perry, FL of Idalia ripping Perry apart. #Idalia #hurricaneidalia pic.twitter.com/s1cxxmezRi
— Aaron Jayjack (@aaronjayjack) August 30, 2023
Storm surge from Hurricane #Idalia in Cedar Key, FL this morning: pic.twitter.com/Ih1gYKzUTZ
— AccuWeather (@accuweather) August 30, 2023
Storm chaser @theScantman reports from the eyewall of Hurricane #Idalia as wind gusts over 110 mph: pic.twitter.com/x9uQv4rgsZ
— AccuWeather (@accuweather) August 30, 2023
