Dear Friend,
Tropical Storm Idalia is expected to intensify early this week as the system barrels toward Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Here is the most recent analysis from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and National Weather Service.
Hurricane Watches are in effect for Sarasota, Manatee, Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando, Citrus, Sumter, western Marion, Levy, Alachua, Union, Bradford, Baker, Columbia, Hamilton, Suwannee, Gilchrist, Dixie, Lafayette, Taylor, Madison, coastal Jefferson, coastal Wakulla, and coastal Franklin Counties.
A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for the Dry Tortugas (Monroe) and Tropical Storm Watches are in effect for Leon, inland Wakulla, inland Jefferson, Lake, Seminole, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Hardee, DeSoto, Charlotte, Lee, Collier, and the Lower Florida Keys.
Storm Surge Watches are in effect from the Collier/Monro County border to the Franklin/Gulf County border, including Tampa Bay.
We expected Watches to be upgraded to Warnings later today which is why it’s really important for everyone to be prepared. Here are some tips on what to do before a storm.
We’ll continue to share updates via email and our social media accounts.
Onward,Â
Rep. Eskamani