Tropical Storm Idalia, which is on track to strengthen into a hurricane by Monday, could evolve into a major Category 3 hurricane by the time it reaches Florida’s western shoreline.
According to this morning’s most recent 8 am update from the National Hurricane Center, it currently has sustained winds of 65 mph.
The storm’s trajectory is predicted to shift north into the eastern Gulf of Mexico, driven by a front directing it towards Florida. After its landfall in Florida and crossing over terrestrial territory, Idalia will start to lose its intensity rapidly as it heads in the direction of the Carolinas.
The exact path the storm takes will determine its strength and specific impact location within the Carolinas, with some models predicting a direct path across the Charlotte region:
Regardless of its intensity, Idalia promises to be a significant rain event for the Carolinas, with the most substantial impact likely between Wednesday afternoon and Thursday morning. The presence of a stalled front before Idalia’s arrival further heightens the risk of potential flooding.
Historically Charlotte usually doesn’t often bear the full brunt of hurricanes in the same way that coastal cities do, we certainly haven’t been immune to the effects of these powerful storms. Hurricane Hugo in 1989 took a surprising turn inland after making landfall, delivering significant wind damage and power outages to Charlotte, and more recently, Hurricane Irma in 2017, and Hurricane Florence in 2018 left tens of thousands without power across the Charlotte region.
Present forecasts estimate rainfall amounts ranging from three to six inches over the coming week. As Idalia’s path becomes clearer, more accurate predictions regarding specific areas of heavy rain and increased flood risk will emerge.
Given Charlotte’s history with severe storms, we should all stay weather aware and prepared.
NHS officials are reminding all residents in Atlantic Coast states to be prepared for flooding, downed tress, and most applicable for our area, power outages.
In case of a power outage, make sure to have the following emergency items stocked in your home;
- Car charger for cell phones and other devices
- Clean drinking water (recommended 1 gallon per person per day, minimum three days)
- Flashlights
- Batteries: Extra batteries for all of your devices
- Weather radio/clock
- Non-perishable food
- First aid kit
