Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) has cautioned Florida residents about Tropical Storm Idalia, which is anticipated to become a hurricane by late Tuesday afternoon.
DeSantis stated on Sunday that the storm is expected to make landfall sometime on Wednesday and could potentially arrive in the state as strong as a Category 2 hurricane. The Florida governor’s press conference was held only a day after he announced on social media he had signed an executive order declaring a state of emergency for 33 counties.
I’ve signed an executive order declaring a state of emergency for 33 counties in preparation for Invest 93L. Issuing this order today ensures communities have time to prepare for the storm system which could have impacts along the Gulf Coast next week.
Floridians should have a…
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) August 26, 2023
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“Storms, of course, as we know, these things can wobble, so Floridians along our Gulf Coast should be vigilant, even if you’re currently outside the cone, and indeed you could see impacts if you are in a place that’s outside the cone,” said DeSantis.
DeSantis warned that those in the path of the storm should expect power outages and should make preparations ahead of time. Those who are power-dependent should plan on going to a shelter, with shelters opening up “in the next day or so.”
The Florida governor also stated that Florida has mobilized 1,100 National Guardsmen who have multiple vehicles and aircraft to help with potential rescue and recovery efforts.
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“Please just be vigilant and watch the weather channel, watch the news, listen to your local fishers; we’re going to continue to have briefings as the days go on here,” said DeSantis. “If you want to know how you can prepare, go to FloridaDisaster.org/getaplan.”
President Joe Biden has been briefed about Idalia’s forecasted path and will be informed of the latest updates as the storm progresses, according to Reuters.
