Forecasters said the storm surge could reach up to 12 feet if it peaks at high tide and rainfall near where Ian makes landfall could top 18 inches.Parts of Georgia and South Caroline could also see flooding rains and coastal surge into the weekend.The governor ordered 500 National Guard members to standby.Hurricane Ian disrupts major cruise line itineraries
Liberty of the Seas is skipping a call at Cozumel, Mexico. The ship is on a seven-night cruise from Galveston, Texas. On Tuesday, a Norwegian Sky ship would make port in San Juan, Puerto Rico, instead of George Town in Grand Cayman. Ports and arrival and departure times were also changed on from Sept. 28 through Oct. 1.
Hurricane hunters found that the storm had strengthened into an extremely dangerous Category 4 hurricane.The agency warned that it was expected to cause life-threatening storm surge andIan was moving toward the north-northeast near 10 mph, with a reduction in speed forecast on Wednesday before turning north on Thursday.
The severe storm strengthened to a Category 4 early Wednesday morning. It is about 85 miles off the southwest coast of Florida, which is already experiencing high winds, heavy rain and flooding. The two Cuban plants were at"0 electricity generation" after the severe storm decimated the island and left its 11 millions residents without power.
"Life-threatening storm surge is likely with the highest risk from Naples to Sarasota," the NWS said."Devastating wind damage is expected near the core of Ian. Considerable flooding is expected with widespread, prolonged moderate to major river flooding expected across central Florida. Tornadoes are possible in central and south Florida."
A press release from the Emergency Operations Center said the transit suspension includes Metrobus, Metrorail, Metromover and Special Transportation Services.On Friday, Sept. 23, Mayor Daniella Levine Cava declared a Local State of Emergency and updated the guidance on Tuesday, Sept. 27, as the Category 3 Hurricane Ian continues to path through the Gulf of Mexico and toward Florida.“Our top concern right now is the safety of our residents and visitors,” said Mayor Levine Cava.
Florida officials have urged residents to board up their homes, relocate precious belongings to upper floors and load up on cash and fuel ahead of Hurricane Ian making landfall, as the monstrous storm nears the state.