Will Jacksonville be affected by Hurricane Idalia? Here's what the forecast says.
Hurricane Idalia is nearing landfall on the Gulf Coast of Florida and is expected to hit Northeast Florida with high winds and potential flooding on Wednesday. The forecast calls for Idalia to strengthen into a major Category 3 hurricane before making landfall near Cedar Key late Tuesday night or early Wednesday. Here is what we know as Hurricane Idalia approaches Jacksonville and Northeast Florida.
What time should we expect Idalia in Jacksonville?
The earliest reasonable time to expect tropical storm-force winds and possible flooding is after midnight Tuesday, according to the National Hurricane Center. The strongest winds and risk of flooding are most likely to take place between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Wednesday.
What effects should Jacksonville expect from Hurricane Idalia?
Rainfall totals predicted are 1 to 4 inches of rain in Northeast Florida and possible storm surge of 1 to 3 feet. The National Weather Service also described conditions as “favorable for tornadoes.”
Is Jacksonville under a hurricane watch?
No. As of Tuesday afternoon, the city is under a tropical storm watch, meaning conditions could include winds of 39 to 73 mph within 48 hours.
How windy will Hurricane Idalia make it in Jacksonville?
The National Weather Service predicts storm-force winds “below tropical storm” levels with winds expected to be 25 to 35 mph and gusts up to 60 mph.
Live webcams: See traffic and beach conditions in Jacksonville area as Hurricane Idalia nears Florida
What to know about bridge closures: At what wind speed do Florida bridges shut down due to hurricane-force winds?
Where can I shelter from Hurricane Idalia in Jacksonville?
The following shelters opened in Jacksonville as of noon Tuesday:
The Legends Center at 5130 Soutel Drive, open for general population and special needs
Chimney Lakes Elementary at 9353 Staples Mill Drive, pet-friendly and open for the general population
Landmark Middle at 101 Kernan Blvd., pet-friendly and open for the general population
Atlantic Coast High School at 9735 R.G. Skinner Parkway, special needs only
LaVilla School of the Arts at 501 N. Davis St., specifically for homeless individuals
Oceanway Elementary School at 12555 Gillespie Ave., open for general population
Will Jacksonville International Airport close for Hurricane Idalia?
The Jacksonville airport has not announced any closures but encourages visitors to continue checking their flight status.
This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: When will Hurricane Idalia hit Jacksonville, Florida? The forecast
