Florida is this week bracing for the arrival of a hurricane that could wreak havoc on communities in the coastal state that is still recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Ian almost a year ago.
Tropical storm Idalia intensified on Monday and was expected to become a major hurricane by the time it reaches Florida's Gulf Coast on Wednesday, the National Hurricane Centre said.
Officials have already declared a state of emergencies in dozens of counties and ordered evacuations in preparation for potentially life-threatening storm surges.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis warned of a “major impact”, noting that what was initially forecast to be a tropical storm was now predicted to become a Category 3 hurricane.
He declared a state of emergency and US President Joe Biden approved it.
“Idalia will likely become a hurricane later tonight as it moves into the south-eastern Gulf of Mexico where conditions appear very favourable for additional intensification,” National Hurricane Centre deputy director Jamie Rhome said on Monday in a video posted on YouTube.
“It is now forecast to become a major hurricane as it approaches the Florida big bend.”
Idalia would be the first storm to hit Florida this hurricane season and could strike another big blow to the state's economy.
Depending on its exact track, Idalia could cause up to $10 billion in damage and losses, according to disaster-modelling firm Enki Research.
“Steady to rapid intensification is predicted beginning [on] Tuesday,” said Daniel Brown, a senior hurricane specialist at the centre.
The state has mobilised 1,100 National Guard members, who have 2,400 high-water vehicles and 12 aircraft at their disposal for rescue and recovery efforts.
Evacuation orders were in place for barrier islands and low-lying areas along the Gulf Coast, Mr DeSantis said on Monday.
Tampa International Airport will close on Tuesday.
Because the storm’s track could change before it makes landfall, he warned residents all along the coast, from Tampa to the Florida Panhandle, to be prepared.
“We can’t unring the bell if someone stays and does battle with mother nature,” Mr DeSantis said. “This is not something you want to do battle with.”
