(NEW YORK) — Ian’s winds weakened to 65 mph on Thursday morning, downgrading the system to a tropical storm because it moved over central Florida. The storm made landfall on Florida’s west coast on Wednesday as a strong Category 4 hurricane.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency.
Here’s how the information is creating. All instances Eastern:
Sep 29, 8:45 AM EDT
Ian, now a tropical storm, heads for South Carolina, Georgia coast
Ian, now a tropical storm, is close to Florida’s east coast and is shifting again over water. Ian is predicted to re-intensify and may very well be at near-hurricane power when it approaches the coast of South Carolina on Friday.
A hurricane watch has been issued for South Carolina and the Georgia coast.
Ian is producing catastrophic flooding over east-central Florida and is predicted to provide life-threatening flooding, storm surge and gusty winds throughout parts of Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas.
There are already greater than 14,000 prospects with out energy in Georgia.
Sep 29, 8:24 AM EDT
Water service out in Punta Gorda, boil water discover in impact till additional discover
Hurricane Ian triggered critical harm to town of Punta Gorda’s water system, leaving it empty, town stated in an alert despatched out to residents.
Water companies can be restored as repairs are made, however the metropolis warned it could take days to finish the repairs, officers stated.
The metropolis is below a boil water discover.
Officials arrange a water fill station for residents and extra water availability has been requested via the Emergency Operations Center, town stated.
Sep 29, 8:10 AM EDT
Power restored to 502,100 prospects, some will expertise extended outages
Power has been restored to 502,100 prospects, as of 5 a.m. Thursday, Florida Power & Light Company stated.
But, the ability utility firm warned that some prospects could expertise extended outages “as a result of parts of the electrical system in Southwest Florida will should be rebuilt relatively than repaired,” FPL stated in a press release.
The firm stated remains to be working to revive energy to 1.2 million prospects.
FPL stated its workforce has elevated to greater than 20,000 individuals, together with mutual help from 30 states, as it really works across the clock to revive energy.
“Hurricane Ian has eternally altered the lives of so lots of our fellow Floridians and we acknowledge the highway to restoration can be lengthy and difficult,” Eric Silagy, chairman and CEO of FPL, stated in a press release.
Sep 29, 7:58 AM EDT
Ian a lethal, ‘life-changing’ storm, Lee County sheriff says
Lee County Sheriff Carmine Marceno instructed ABC News’ Good Morning America that Hurricane Ian was very unpredictable, with officers monitoring the storm each minute they usually didn’t know the place it will hit.
“This is a life-changing occasion for all of us. We tracked that storm up the coast of Florida, it was very unpredictable,” Marceno stated.
He added, “We didn’t know the place it will hit. I can inform you it got here into Lee County robust and it was sluggish shifting.”
Marceno stated there have been fatalities, however he didn’t but know the precise quantity.
Marceno stated they’re already assessing the world, however the entire space is “crushed” and persons are trapped. Marceno stated they’ve hundreds of 911 calls that they’re at the moment answering.
“We nonetheless can’t entry lots of the individuals which can be in want,” Marceno stated. “It’s an actual, actual tough highway forward.”
Sep 29, 7:21 AM EDT
Biden Approves Florida Disaster Declaration
President Joe Biden has accredited a significant catastrophe declaration for Florida residents in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Hardee, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Pinellas and Sarasota counties.
“Assistance can embody grants for non permanent housing and residential repairs, low-cost loans to cowl uninsured property losses, and different applications to assist people and enterprise house owners get well from the results of the catastrophe,” the White House stated.
Sep 29, 6:42 AM EDT
Conditions in Kissimmee and neighboring counties in Florida worsened in a single day
Flooding has hit a number of components of the Orlando space, together with Seminole, Osceola, Lake counties and different neighboring areas.
ABC News’ Orlando affiliate WFTV stated that first responders in Kissimmee rescued at the least one particular person from a few automobiles that had been partially submerged throughout a storm surge in a single day.
It is unclear how extreme the harm is within the space however witnesses reported heavy and sustained wind and rain all through the in a single day hours.
Sep 29, 6:40 AM EDT
Flash flood emergency declared close to Orlando
A flash flood emergency was declared in areas north of Orlando because the area was hit by a few foot of rain, the National Weather Service stated.
The declaration lined Sanford, Lake Mary and Heathrow, the service stated. Nearby Central Orange, Seminole and South Central Volusia had been additionally below flash flood warnings.
“This is a very harmful state of affairs,” the service stated. “Seek greater floor now! Life threatening flash flooding of low water crossings, small creeks and streams, city areas, highways, streets and underpasses.”
Parts of the area have seen greater than 16 inches of rain inside 24 hours, with greater than 9 inches within the final six hours, making the storm a 1,000-year flood occasion within the Orlando space and to the north.
Sep 29, 5:50 AM EDT
Power outages unfold to 2.5 million prospects
More than 2.5 million prospects had been with out energy in Florida at about 5:30 a.m. on Thursday, the state’s suppliers stated.
Sep 29, 5:09 AM EDT
Ian turns into tropical storm with 65 mph winds
Ian’s winds slowed to 65 mph early on Thursday morning, downgrading the system to a tropical storm, the National Hurricane Center stated.
“The Hurricane Warnings alongside the east and west coasts of the Florida peninsula have been modified to Tropical Storm Warnings,” the middle stated.
Sep 29, 5:20 AM EDT
Biden and DeSantis replace schedules for Thursday
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis can be holding his subsequent press convention on the most recent developments of Hurricane Ian at 8:45 a.m. ET on the State Emergency Operations Center in Tallahassee.
President Joe Biden, in the meantime, will go to FEMA headquarters in Washington, D.C. to obtain an replace on Hurricane Ian at 12 p.m. ET.
While Hurricane Ian is predicted to change into a tropical storm on Thursday, the storm has battered southwest Florida and has left greater than 2 million individuals with out energy thus far.
Sep 29, 2:15 AM EDT
Ian now 75 mph Category 1 hurricane, anticipated to change into tropical storm later this morning
As of the two a.m. ET advisory this morning, Ian continues to keep up its hurricane standing.
However, it has weakened to a 75 mph Category 1 hurricane and is predicted to change into a tropical storm later this morning earlier than rising off of Florida’s east coast.
Ian’s new monitor can be issued and up to date once more at 5 a.m. ET.
Sep 29, 2:09 AM EDT
2.3 million prospects with out energy, Florida suppliers say
Florida’s electrical suppliers stated greater than 2.3 million prospects had been with out energy at about 2 a.m. native time.
Florida Power & Light, the state’s largest supplier, reported greater than 1.1 million outages for its 5.7 million prospects.
“Hurricane Ian’s catastrophic winds will imply components of our system will should be rebuilt — not restored,” the corporate stated on Twitter late Wednesday. “Be ready for widespread, prolonged outages as we’re assessing the harm. We are already at work restoring energy the place we are able to achieve this safely.”
Sep 29, 12:38 AM EDT
Portions of Fort Myers below as much as 4 toes of water
Portions of Fort Myers are below as much as 4 toes of water, town stated late Wednesday night time, and residents are being instructed to remain inside as first responders attempt to assess the harm from Hurricane Ian.
“We want to make sure that the roads are clear in order that our first responders and our help crews can go on the market and assist everybody that wants us,” town wrote on Twitter. “PLEASE, please, please keep inside.”
Sep 29, 12:04 AM EDT
Jacksonville airport cancels all flights Thursday
Jacksonville International Airport has canceled all flights for Thursday and the terminal can be closed.
Sep 28, 11:29 PM EDT
Hurricane Ian now Category 1 storm
Ian continues to step by step weaken because it strikes throughout the Florida Peninsula, now a Category 1 storm with most sustained winds all the way down to 90 mph. The storm is shifting to the north-northeast at 8 mph, and the middle is at the moment about 70 miles south of Orlando.
While Ian is weakening, it’s nonetheless bringing widespread harmful climate impacts throughout the state.
Sep 28, 10:58 PM EDT
Flash flood emergency issued in west-central Florida
A Flash Flood Emergency has been issued for components of Sarasota, Manatee, Desoto, Hardee and Highlands counties in west-central Florida, with different areas experiencing life-threatening flash flooding.
Between 12 to 19 inches of rain has already fallen within the space.
-ABC News’ Daniel Peck
Sep 28, 10:51 PM EDT
Lee County sheriff: Reports of buildings compromised and automobiles floating
As Hurricane Ian makes its method throughout Florida, counties are assessing the devastation left by the storm.
In a Wednesday night time press convention, Lee County Sheriff Carmine Marceno stated that Ian hit the county extraordinarily arduous.
Marceno stated he’d gotten experiences of compromised houses and companies and of automobiles floating into the ocean.
Officials stated a part of Fort Myers, which is in Lee County, was “decimated” by Hurricane Ian.
Marceno stated residents are in want, and the county will reply to emergency calls as soon as it’s secure.
-ABC News’ William Gretsky
Sep 28, 10:46 PM EDT
Ian continues to step by step weaken, winds at 100 mph
Hurricane Ian continues to step by step weaken as of 10 p.m. ET, with most sustained winds now all the way down to 100 mph. The storm is shifting to the north-northeast at 8 mph, and its heart is at the moment about 80 miles south of Orlando.
The Florida Peninsula continues to expertise harmful climate impacts, together with robust wind gusts, torrential rain and chronic storm surge in some areas.
Areas of relentless heavy rain will proceed to deliver the specter of harmful flash flooding in some areas. This menace turns into much more harmful throughout in a single day hours.
-ABC News’ Dan Peck
Sep 28, 10:33 PM EDT
At least 30 rescues in Naples Wednesday
There had been at the least 30 rescues in Naples, Florida, on Wednesday amid ongoing rescue operations, the Collier County Sheriff’s Office stated.
“Our East Naples deputies did 30 rescue missions right now. We are nonetheless gathering numbers from different areas. We are nonetheless rescuing individuals,” the workplace wrote on Facebook.
“Water is in every single place. It will recede. There can be harm,” it added. “Tomorrow we can have a greater thought of the extent of harm. We will preserve you up to date.”
Sep 28, 10:26 PM EDT
More than 2 million prospects with out energy in Florida
The variety of prospects with out energy in Florida has topped 2 million, as Hurricane Ian continues making its method throughout the state.
Most of the outages are within the southern Gulf aspect of the state, primarily in Lee, Collier, Charlotte and Sarasota counties.
The outages are shifting east because the storm strikes throughout the state.
-ABC News’ Darren Reynolds
Sep 28, 9:28 PM EDT
Jacksonville mayor publicizes closure of three main seashores
Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry introduced Wednesday night that town is closing Atlantic, Neptune and Jacksonville seashores forward of Hurricane Ian’s influence on the world.
“We will reopen as quickly because it’s secure for residents,” Curry tweeted.
Sep 28, 9:26 PM EDT
Over 1.9 million prospects with out energy in Florida
The variety of prospects with out energy in Florida has topped 1.9 million, as Hurricane Ian continues making its method throughout the state.
Most of the outages are within the southern Gulf aspect of the state, primarily in Lee, Collier, Charlotte and Sarasota counties.
The outages are shifting east because the storm strikes throughout the state.
-ABC News’ Darren Reynolds
Sep 28, 9:13 PM EDT
Ian downgraded to Category 2 hurricane
Hurricane Ian has been downgraded to a Category 2 storm as of a 9 p.m. ET replace, with winds now at 105 mph.
-ABC News’ Riley Winch
Sep 28, 8:30 PM EDT
Extreme wind warning issued for central Florida counties
Hurricane Ian stays a Category 3 storm as of an 8 p.m. ET replace, with winds dropping to 115 mph.
The National Weather Service issued a brand new Extreme Wind Warning for Highlands, Hardee, Charlotte, Polk and DeSoto Counties in central Florida till 9:30 p.m. ET.
-ABC News’ Riley Winch
Sep 28, 7:31 PM EDT
‘We hear your calls’: Sheriff
Lee County has obtained greater than double the variety of 911 calls it sometimes receives amid Hurricane Ian, in keeping with Sheriff Carmine Marceno, as first responders have suspended their emergency response through the main storm.
“We hear your calls and are conscious that Hurricane Ian was a strong and devastating climate occasion,” Marceno stated in a social media put up Wednesday night. “We need to get to you. We need to prevent. As quickly as safely doable, our property are able to deploy to come back to your aide.”
Ben Abes, Lee County’s public security director, stated present circumstances, together with flooding, make it “not possible” for first responders to exit. He stated the county is monitoring 911 calls and prioritizing them as soon as first responders are in a position to act after the hurricane passes.
“We are conscious of a lot of calls of people who find themselves stranded because of excessive water,” he stated throughout a press briefing Wednesday night. “This is a scary state of affairs. We urge you to not panic.”
Lee County, which is dwelling to hard-hit Fort Myers, Sanibel and Bonita Beach, issued a countywide curfew Wednesday night because of the storm that’s in impact till additional discover.
Sep 28, 7:15 PM EDT
Ian downgraded to a Category 3 hurricane
Hurricane Ian has weakened to a Category 3 storm hours after making landfall close to Fort Myers as a significant hurricane.
While the power of the storm has diminished barely, Ian remains to be wreaking havoc on the Sunshine State as a devastating storm.
The highest wind gust measured at 132 mph at Port Charlotte, and most sustained winds are at the moment at 125 mph, in keeping with the National Hurricane Center’s 7 p.m. advisory.
Water ranges in Fort Myers have been reported at greater than 7 toes, the advisory states.
-ABC News’ Riley Winch
Sep 28, 7:10 PM EDT
Sanibel, Fort Myers Beach ‘decimated’ by Ian, native officers say
Sanibel Island and Fort Myers Beach have been “decimated” by Ian after the most important hurricane made landfall there.
About 75% of Lee County is with out energy, and a number of other persons are stranded because of excessive water, officers from Lee County Emergency Management introduced throughout a press convention Wednesday afternoon.
A curfew in Lee County was carried out starting at 6 p.m. Wednesday. Forecasts predict that it’ll not be secure to enterprise exterior within the area till 5 a.m. on Thursday, officers stated.
The variety of accidents or fatalities shouldn’t be but clear, officers stated, including that the restoration efforts will take months.
-ABC News’ Will Gretsky
Sep 28, 6:38 PM EDT
Wind gusts in eye wall measure at 104 mph
A National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration station in Venice Beach, Florida, has measured wind gusts of 104 mph inside the northern eye wall of Hurricane Ian, in keeping with the 6 p.m. storm advisory.
The storm is at the moment battering the Florida peninsula with catastrophic storm surge, winds and flooding, in keeping with the National Hurricane Center.
Maximum sustained winds measured at 130 mph, and the storm system has begun churning even slower at 8 mph north-northeast — towards the east coast of the state.
-ABC News’ Melissa Griffin
Sep 28, 6:33 PM EDT
‘Massive mobilization’ of utility vans on the way in which to Florida, governor says
A caravan of utility vans is making its method from a number of states towards the components of Florida most battered by Hurricane Ian to revive energy after the worst of the storm has handed, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis introduced throughout a information convention Wednesday afternoon.
“We have an enormous, large mobilization,” DeSantis stated, including that staff are coming from different southern states accustomed to hurricane cleanup, akin to Texas and Louisiana.
More almost 1.5 million prospects in Florida had been with out energy Wednesday as Ian made landfall close to Fort Myers.
Ian continued to batter a big swath of Florida at 6:15 p.m. ET, with life-threatening storm surge all alongside the southwest coast — as much as 12 toes in some locations, DeSantis stated.
Downtown Naples was reportedly fully flooded because of report storm surge, and whereas there have been additionally experiences of structural harm in Lee County, DeSantis stated.
“This was a prime 5 hurricane to ever hit the Florida peninsula,” the governor stated.
DeSantis stated that devastating inland flooding was inundating a lot of the areas experiencing hurricane circumstances, as nicely.
DeSantis has declared a significant catastrophe within the state.
-ABC News’ Will Gretsky
Sep 28, 6:13 PM EDT
Fort Myers, Naples problem curfews
The metropolis of Fort Myers in southwest Florida has issued a citywide curfew “to guard and safeguard the well being, security and welfare of residents, guests and first responders.” The curfew began at 6 p.m. Wednesday and can be in impact for the following 48 hours.
Down the coast, town of Naples additionally issued a citywide curfew earlier Wednesday afternoon, efficient instantly till additional discover.
Naples reported report storm surge Wednesday morning, earlier than Ian made landfall.
Sep 28, 4:54 PM EDT
Ian makes 2nd landfall on Florida mainland
Hurricane Ian made a second landfall simply south of Punta Gorda with most sustained winds of 145 mph.
Ian made preliminary landfall on a barrier island close to Cayo Costa simply after 3 p.m.
Sep 28, 4:48 PM EDT
South Carolina, North Carolina problem states of emergency
The governors of South Carolina and North Carolina every issued states of emergency on Wednesday afternoon in preparation for Ian’s arrival.
South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster stated no evacuations or college closures have been ordered but.
North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper stated the choice would assist first responders and farmers and shield prospects from value gouging.
The storm is predicted to cross Florida and enter the Atlantic earlier than making landfall once more alongside the South Carolina coast over the weekend.
Sep 28, 4:13 PM EDT
Over 1 million energy outages
Over 1 million Florida prospects had been with out energy on Wednesday simply after Ian made landfall.
The majority of outages had been alongside the west coast in Sarasota, Lee, Charlotte and Collier counties.
Sep 28, 3:12 PM EDT
Ian makes landfall as Category 4
Hurricane Ian made landfall on Florida’s west coast Wednesday afternoon as a strong Category 4 storm, slamming the shoreline with highly effective 150 mph winds and harmful storm surge.
Landfall was at about 3:05 p.m. ET close to Cayo Costa, an island off the coast of Fort Myers.
For southwest Florida, Ian “will in all probability be the massive one which they at all times keep in mind,” Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis stated.
The governor stated Ian will doubtless keep within the state till Thursday, exiting from Daytona Beach.
Sep 28, 2:07 PM EDT
Biden to go to FEMA on Thursday
President Joe Biden will go to FEMA headquarters in Washington, D.C., on Thursday to obtain an replace on Hurricane Ian, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated.
“We have deployed important federal sources to the area to assist put together for the hurricane,” Jean-Pierre stated at Wednesday’s press briefing. “We have greater than 1,300 federal response staff on the bottom in Florida. … Three-hundred Army Corps personnel are on the bottom to assist energy and gasoline assessments. Three-hundred ambulances are supporting native officers, and a number of federal catastrophe medical help groups are deployed to Florida and Georgia.”
Sep 28, 1:33 PM EDT
Counties droop emergency response calls
Sarasota County, Florida, officers introduced emergency crews will not reply to calls because of Hurricane Ian.
In Charlotte County, simply north of Fort Myers, emergency response requires fireplace and EMS service will even be suspended.
The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office added, “911 will nonetheless be operational and calls can be triaged for response as quickly as climate situation allow.”
Sep 28, 1:25 PM EDT
Naples points curfew
The metropolis of Naples, in southwest Florida, has issued a citywide curfew, efficient instantly till additional discover.
Naples has reported a wind gust of 112 mph as Hurricane Ian inches nearer to shore.
Sep 28, 1:03 PM EDT
Extreme wind warning issued
An excessive wind warning has been issued close to Fort Myers as Hurricane Ian nears.
Naples has reported a wind gust of 112 mph.
Fort Myers resident Debbie Levenson and her husband selected to not evacuate for Hurricane Ian and are staying put at dwelling.
“Hurricanes are a priority, however I don’t freak out about it. You do what you need to do. You get your provides, ensure you have flashlights, do your laundry forward of time in case you lose energy,” she instructed ABC News. “We purchased bottled water and wine. We put gasoline within the automotive. The retailer cabinets weren’t empty.”
“We are involved with native flooding, however we drained the pool and are keeping track of the roads,” she continued. “Most of the neighborhood has stayed. Neighbors solely left if that they had babies or had a medical purpose.”
Ken Graham, director of NOAA’s National Weather Service, warned individuals sheltering in place to not enterprise out as soon as the storm passes over.
“Don’t go on the market. It’s so harmful to be on the market. So even in case you see the water receding, it’s not the time to exit,” he stated.
-ABC News’ Morgan Korn and Max Golembo
Sep 28, 12:03 PM EDT
Ian nears record-breaking winds
Hurricane Ian, a Category 4 with 155 mph winds, is nearing record-breaking wind ranges.
Only 4 hurricanes have ever made landfall within the continental U.S. with winds over 155 mph: Labor Day in 1935 with 185 mph winds; Camille in 1969 with 175 mph winds; Andrew in 1992 with 165 mph; and Michael in 2018 with 160 mph.
Sep 28, 11:53 AM EDT
Naples sees report storm surge
Naples, Florida, reached a brand new record-high storm surge of 4.8 toes Wednesday morning — and the water continues to rise.
This beats the report of 4.25 toes reached throughout Hurricane Irma in 2017.
Ken Graham, director of NOAA’s National Weather Service, warned Wednesday, “This goes to be a storm we speak about for a few years to come back — historic occasion.”
Sep 28, 11:13 AM EDT
Ian’s eyewall shifting on shore
Hurricane Ian’s eyewall is shifting on shore.
The highly effective Category 4 storm is ready to deliver catastrophic storm surge, winds and flooding.
Sanibel Island has reported sustained winds of 58 mph with a wind gust reaching 75 mph.
Sep 28, 10:45 AM EDT
Over 2,000 flights canceled
The airports in Orlando, Miami, Tampa and Fort Lauderdale are main the world in flight cancellations Wednesday morning.
Over 2,000 flights have been canceled inside, into, or out of the United States on Wednesday.
Another 1,600 flights are already cancelled for Thursday.
The Tampa International Airport will stay closed via Thursday.
-ABC News’ Ahmad Hemingway and Sam Sweeney
Sep 28, 10:00 AM EDT
Over 172,000 energy outages
Over 172,000 Florida prospects are with out energy on Wednesday morning as Ian nears.
Sep 28, 9:09 AM EDT
18 toes of storm surge doable
Up to 18 toes of harmful storm surge is forecast alongside Florida’s Southwest coast, together with Englewood, Bonita Beach and Charlotte Harbor.
FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell warned Tuesday that her greatest concern with Ian was storm surge.
“In 2018, when Hurricane Michael impacted the Florida Panhandle, there have been 5 recorded fatalities on account of storm surge,” she famous.
Sep 28, 8:32 AM EDT
Gov.: Treat storm like twister approaching your house
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis warned Wednesday morning that Ian might doubtlessly make landfall as a Category 5 hurricane.
“This is a strong storm that must be handled such as you would deal with a twister approaching your house,” he stated. “This one has simply strengthened and strengthened, and it’s the actual deal. So, it will do numerous harm, so individuals must be ready for that.”
More than 200 shelters are open in South Florida, he stated.
Twenty-six states, together with New York and New Jersey, have despatched assist to Florida, he stated.
Sep 28, 7:41 AM EDT
Winds close to Category 5 as storm approaches Florida
Hurricane Ian approached Category 5 standing at about 6:30 a.m. ET, with its winds topping out at 155 mph.
Only 4 hurricanes have ever made landfall within the continental U.S. with winds over 155 mph: Labor Day in 1935 with 185 mph winds; Camille in 1969 with 175 mph winds; Andrew in 1992 with 165 mph; and Michael in 2018 with 160 mph.
Severe Category 5 hurricanes have winds above 157 mph.
“Rapidly intensifying Ian forecast to trigger catastrophic storm surge, winds, and flooding within the Florida peninsula,” the National Hurricane Center stated at 7 a.m. ET.
Sep 28, 7:23 AM EDT
16 toes of storm surge doable
A whopping 16 toes of storm surge is feasible round Fort Myers.
Up to 11 toes of storm surge is forecast for Naples whereas a most of 10 toes is predicted for the Sarasota space.
“Our greatest concern as we await this storm to make landfall is storm surge,” FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell warned Tuesday. “In 2018, when Hurricane Michael impacted the Florida Panhandle, there have been 5 recorded fatalities on account of storm surge.”
Sep 28, 7:15 AM EDT
Nearly 2,000 flights canceled
Florida’s airports are main the world in flight cancellations Wednesday morning.
There are at the least 1,903 flight cancellations inside, into, or out of the United States for Wednesday.
Sep 28, 5:13 AM EDT
Ian strengthens to Category 4 hurricane
Hurricane Ian strengthened to a Category 4 hurricane on Wednesday morning, as its winds climbed to 140 mph, the National Hurricane Center stated.
The storm is the primary Category 4 hurricane within the Gulf of Mexico since Hurricane Rita in September 2005.
Sep 28, 3:06 AM EDT
Ian strikes nearer to Florida’s west coast
Hurricane Ian was shifting nearer to Florida’s west coast, the National Hurricane Center stated in its 2 a.m. ET replace on the storm’s place.
The eye of the Category 3 storm was about 95 miles southwest of Naples, Florida, and was shifting north-northeast at about 10 mph, officers stated.
“On the forecast monitor, the middle of Ian is predicted to strategy the west coast of Florida inside the hurricane warning space this morning, and transfer onshore later right now,” the replace stated.
Officials stated the storm was anticipated to cross over central Florida on Wednesday night time and Thursday morning, earlier than rising over the Atlantic Ocean late Thursday.
The hurricane was “anticipated to trigger life-threatening storm surge, catastrophic winds and flooding within the Florida peninsula,” the replace stated.
Sep 28, 2:28 AM EDT
Miami-Dade County suspends transit service
Officials in Miami-Dade County suspended transit companies at 1 a.m. ET on Wednesday, as Hurricane Ian approached Florida.
Florida’s most populous county halted its Metrobus, Metrorail, Metromover and Special Transportation Services till additional discover, officers stated in a information launch.
Sep 28, 12:24 AM EDT
DeSantis tells Floridians time to evacuate is ‘now’
Hurricane Ian is quick approaching Florida, and the time to go away is “now” in case you’re in an evacuation zone, Gov. Ron DeSantis stated late Tuesday throughout a press convention.
“Your time to evacuate is coming to an finish. You must evacuate now. You’re going to begin feeling main impacts of this storm comparatively quickly,” the governor stated. “Now is the time to do it, and now could be the time to behave.”
As of Tuesday night time, about 8,000 individuals had been with out energy within the southern a part of Florida, officers stated.
Conditions are anticipated to proceed to deteriorate throughout central and south Florida, with landfall at the moment forecast someday between Wednesday afternoon and early night.
Elsewhere, a tropical storm warning is now in impact alongside the coast of Georgia and as much as Charleston, S.C.
Sep 27, 10:31 PM EDT
Biden spoke with DeSantis, White House press secretary says
President Joe Biden spoke Tuesday night time with Gov. Ron DeSantis forward of Hurricane Ian’s arrival “to debate the steps the federal authorities is taking to assist Florida put together,” White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre tweeted.
“The president and the governor dedicated to continued shut coordination,” Jean-Pierre wrote.
Sep 27, 10:18 PM EDT
Cuba with out energy in wake of Hurricane Ian: Reports
Cuba has misplaced energy after Hurricane Ian made landfall on the island Tuesday, in keeping with experiences.
There is “0 electrical energy technology” within the nation, in keeping with a National Electric System replace.
“This sophisticated situation can be related to complicated climate circumstances which have affected the SEN infrastructure,” the replace stated.
Sep 27, 8:33 PM EDT
Some Florida residents start evacuating forward of Ian’s landfall
Some Florida residents have begun evacuating their houses as Hurricane Ian approaches.
People are in search of shelter forward of the storm, which is at the moment forecast to make landfall as a Category 4 hurricane someday Wednesday afternoon.
Ian stays a Category 3 storm with most sustained winds of 120 mph as of Tuesday would possibly.
It’s shifting north-northeast at 10 mph and the middle is situated about 180 miles south-southwest of Punta Gorda, Florida.
There have been a number of twister warnings within the space over the previous few hours. A big twister was reported on the bottom in southern Broward County, close to Davie, at round 7:30 p.m. ET.
Sep 27, 7:34 PM EDT
Satellite pictures present lightning-packed eye of Hurricane Ian
Hurricane Ian is barreling towards Florida, and satellite tv for pc pictures present the attention of the storm full of lightning because it strengthens over the Gulf of Mexico.
The storm is at the moment forecast to make landfall on Florida’s western coast on Wednesday between 1 and 6 p.m., someplace between Port Charlotte and Sarasota.
See the latest maps and read more about Hurricane Ian’s projections and possible paths here.
Sep 27, 6:31 PM EDT
DeSantis on Hurricane Ian: ‘This factor is the actual deal, it’s a main, main storm’
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has urged Floridians to take Hurricane Ian severely because the highly effective storm heads to the state.
“You don’t get a mulligan when your private security is in danger,” he stated throughout a press convention on Tuesday.
About 2.5 million individuals within the state are below evacuation orders.
“This factor is the actual deal. It is a significant, main storm,” DeSantis stated.
-ABC News’ Darren Reynolds
Sep 27, 5:43 PM EDT
5,000 Florida Guardsmen activated and prepping for Hurricane Ian
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has activated 5,000 Florida National Guardsmen to armories throughout the state in preparation for Hurricane Ian, which is forecast to hit the state on Wednesday.
Roughly 2,000 National Guard members from neighboring states akin to Tennessee are additionally being activated to help, the Florida National Guard stated in a press release Tuesday.
“The Florida National Guard is well-equipped, with property together with high-wheeled automobiles, helicopters, boats, mills and extra,” the assertion stated.
The U.S. Navy has licensed non-essential personnel in numerous Florida counties to evacuate.
-ABC News’ Matt Seyler
Sep 27, 5:12 PM EDT
Landfall forecast for Wednesday afternoon or night
Hurricane Ian, barreling north towards Florida with 120 mph winds, is now situated about 230 miles away from Sarasota.
Ian is predicted to make landfall in Florida on Wednesday afternoon or early night.
Ian’s outer bands are already hitting South Florida, bringing a menace of heavy downpours, robust wind gusts, frequent lightning and even tornadoes. A twister watch is in impact for South Florida till 5 a.m. Wednesday.
-ABC News’ Dan Peck
Sep 27, 4:51 PM EDT
Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando to shut
Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando will shut Wednesday and Thursday because of the storm.
Sep 27, 3:56 PM EDT
Coastal Georgia, South Carolina below tropical storm watches
As Ian strikes north over Florida, tropical storm pressure winds will attain coastal Georgia and South Carolina.
Tropical storm watches have been issued for Savannah and close to Charleston.
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp has issued a state of emergency.
Sep 27, 2:57 PM EDT
Ian, a Category 3, anticipated to strengthen extra
Ian, now a Category 3 hurricane with 120 mph winds, has strengthened on Tuesday and is forecast to strengthen much more into the night time.
People stroll via a flooded avenue in Batabano, Cuba, Sept. 27, 2022, through the…Read More
The newest monitor exhibits Ian making landfall on Wednesday, putting the west coast of Florida between Tampa and Fort Myers, bringing flooding and damaging winds.
Hurricane warnings are in impact from Tampa to Fort Myers and storm surge warnings are in impact for a big portion of Florida’s west coast.
There can be a threat for tornadoes in Florida Tuesday and Wednesday.
Sep 27, 2:34 PM EDT
FEMA: ‘Do not underestimate’ Ian
Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator Deanne Criswell warned Tuesday, “Floridians are going to expertise the impacts from the storm for a really very long time.”
“Our greatest concern as we await this storm to make landfall is storm surge,” Criswell stated. “In 2018, when Hurricane Michael impacted the Florida Panhandle, there have been 5 recorded fatalities on account of storm surge. So due to this fact, if persons are instructed to evacuate by their native officers, please hearken to them. The determination you select to make could imply the distinction between life and dying.”
President Joe Biden on Tuesday urged residents to “evacuate when ordered.”
Biden stated he spoke to the mayors of Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater Tuesday morning and instructed them to “contact me straight” for “no matter they want.”
Criswell stated a search and rescue coordination group has been activated, together with members from FEMA’s city search and rescue groups, the Coast Guard, the Department of Defense and the Department of the Interior.
The Red Cross has established 29 shelters and is ready to open 60 extra shelters if wanted, she stated.
Criswell burdened, “To those that could also be watching at dwelling, prepare and don’t underestimate the potential that the storm can deliver.”
Sep 27, 2:28 PM EDT
Orlando’s airport closing Wednesday
The Orlando International Airport stated operations will cease at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday.
The St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport is closing at 1 p.m. Tuesday whereas Tampa International Airport is suspending flights at 5 p.m. Tuesday.
The Sarasota Bradenton International Airport is closing at 8 p.m. Tuesday whereas the Melbourne Orlando International Airport will cease flights at 2 p.m. Wednesday.
Sep 27, 12:25 PM EDT
Orlando’s airport closing Wednesday
The Orlando International Airport stated operations will cease at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday.
The St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport is closing at 1 p.m. Tuesday whereas Tampa International Airport is suspending flights at 5 p.m. Tuesday.
Sep 27, 12:03 PM EDT
Coastal Georgia, South Carolina below tropical storm watches
As Ian strikes north over Florida, tropical storm pressure winds will attain coastal Georgia and South Carolina.
Tropical storm watches have been issued for Savannah and close to Charleston.
Sep 27, 11:13 AM EDT
Landfall in Florida forecast for Wednesday afternoon
Hurricane Ian’s monitor is shifting south, with landfall forecast for late afternoon Wednesday between Tampa and Fort Myers as a Category 3 storm.
The storm surge forecast for Tampa Bay has dropped from 10 toes to eight toes. But now the expected storm surge for Fort Myers has elevated and may very well be as excessive as 12 toes.
Sep 27, 9:41 AM EDT
Tornado watches issued in South Florida
Tornado watches have been issued in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Naples and Key West as Hurricane Ian approaches.
The watches are in impact till 5 p.m. Tuesday.
Sep 27, 8:25 AM EDT
Latest forecast exhibits landfall in Tampa Bay space
The forecast has shifted considerably east, now with landfall anticipated within the Tampa Bay space Wednesday night time into early Thursday morning as a Category 3 hurricane.
This would mark Tampa Bay’s first direct hit from a significant hurricane since 1921.
Slow-moving Ian is predicted to drop greater than 15 inches of rain from Tampa to Orlando.
Major flooding is feasible in Orlando, Tampa and St. Petersburg.
Sep 27, 5:00 AM EDT
Hurricane Ian makes landfall after strengthening to main storm
Hurricane Ian made landfall over western Cuba early on Tuesday morning, the National Hurricane Center stated.
“Satellite and radar knowledge point out that the middle of Ian has made landfall simply southwest of the city of La Coloma within the Pinar Del Rio Province of Cuba at 4:30 a.m.,” the middle stated.
Ian’s winds at landfall had been estimated at a most of 125 mph, making the storm a Category 3 hurricane.
Sep 26, 11:35 PM EDT
Ian strengthens as winds develop to 105 mph
Hurricane Ian continued to accentuate Monday night time, with most sustained winds now at 105 mph.
The hurricane is about 105 miles east-southeast of the western tip of Cuba, which is predicted to see important wind and storm surge impacts quickly.
The storm is predicted to change into a significant hurricane in a single day or Tuesday morning.
Sep 26, 9:47 PM EDT
Tampa International Airport to shut as Ian approaches
Tampa International Airport will cease all operations beginning 5 p.m. Tuesday to safe its airfield and terminals forward of Hurricane Ian’s anticipated landfall later this week.
Sep 26, 7:14 PM EDT
HHS secretary declares public well being emergency for Florida
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has declared a public well being emergency for the state of Florida.
HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra made the declaration Monday to deal with the doable well being impacts for Florida residents as soon as Hurricane Ian nears the state.
“We will do all we are able to to help Florida officers with responding to the well being impacts of Hurricane Ian,” Becerra stated in a press release. “We are working carefully with state, native, and tribal well being authorities, in addition to our federal companions, and stand prepared to supply further public well being and medical assist.”
HHS has pre-positioned two 15-person well being and medical process pressure groups from its National Disaster Medical System, in addition to a 13-person incident administration workforce and two pharmacists to help with the response in Florida.
“These groups are extremely skilled and able to reply if, when, and the place they might be wanted following the storm,” HHS Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response Dawn O’Connell stated.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency on Saturday. That declaration was accredited by President Joe Biden on Sunday.
Sep 26, 6:59 PM EDT
Hurricane warning issued for Tampa Bay space
The National Hurricane Center has issued a hurricane warning for the Tampa Bay space simply after its 5 p.m. advisory for Hurricane Ian.
The hurricane, at the moment a Category 2, is forecast to strengthen earlier than it slows down because it approaches land. It is then anticipated to hover off the coast of Tampa from Wednesday into Thursday earlier than making landfall.
A hurricane watch has additionally been issued for Big Bend, Florida, close to the panhandle, and tropical storm warnings are in impact for a lot of southwest Florida.
Tropical storm watches are in impact for Orlando towards the northeast portion of the state, from Fort Pierce to Jacksonville.
-ABC News’ Melissa Griffin
Sep 26, 6:21 PM EDT
Florida utility firm to make use of distant grid expertise to revive energy through the storm
The emergency response from Florida Power & Light is “nicely underway” as Hurricane Ian approaches, the utility firm introduced Monday.
FP&L has mobilized 13,000 staff, in addition to provides, to make sure the response is carried out as safely and shortly as doable after the storm hits, in keeping with a press launch.
As the hurricane begins to bear down on the area, FP&L will use distant grid expertise to revive energy remotely through the storm, so long as it’s secure to take action, the corporate stated. After the storm passes and winds drop under 35 mph, FP&L will proceed restoration and conduct harm assessments with subject crews.
The utility firm additionally urged prospects to make preparations and take security precautions.
“As this storm approaches Florida, we all know our prospects are relying on us and we’re decided to satisfy this problem,” stated Eric Silagy, chairman and CEO of FP&L in a press release. “We are mobilizing and pre-positioning our restoration workforce, so these courageous women and men can shortly begin working as quickly as it’s secure to take action.”
-ABC News’ Matt Foster
Sep 26, 3:58 PM EDT
Florida State University cancels lessons
Florida State University has canceled lessons Tuesday via Friday as Hurricane Ian approaches.
“The cancellation of lessons on Tuesday is to permit college students to journey safely out of the world in the event that they so select,” the college stated. “Students who select to remain in Tallahassee can be suggested through the FSU Alert system to observe a ‘shelter in place’ protocol through the storm.”
Sep 26, 3:38 PM EDT
St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport to shut
The St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport will shut at 1 p.m. Tuesday because of the necessary evacuation orders in Pinellas County. The airport will keep closed till the evacuation order is lifted.
Sep 26, 2:55 PM EDT
1st necessary evacuation orders issued
Mandatory evacuation orders are in place for coastal components of Hillsborough County, Florida. Over 300,000 persons are anticipated to evacuate, officers introduced Monday, with emergency shelters opening at 2 p.m. Monday.
Hillsborough County might withstand 15 toes of storm surge and 30 straight hours of tropical storm pressure winds, Florida Emergency Management Director Tim Dudley stated.
County Administrator Bonnie Wise added, “We didn’t make this determination simply, however the storm poses a critical menace, and we should do every part we are able to shield our residents.”
Some residents of Sarasota County and Manatee County are additionally below necessary evacuation orders.
-ABC News’ Alex Faul
Sep 26, 2:01 PM EDT
7,000 National Guardsmen deployed to assist
Five-thousand members of the Florida National Guard have been activated to assist throughout Hurricane Ian. Another 2,000 guardsmen from Tennessee, Georgia and North Carolina are additionally coming to assist, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis stated.
Nearly 300 ambulances and assist automobiles are being deployed to areas bracing for Ian’s landfall, DeSantis stated.
-ABC News’ Alex Faul
Sep 26, 12:43 PM EDT
Tampa could shut down airport
In Tampa, the place residents are bracing for 10 toes of harmful storm surge, the Tampa International Airport could shut down components of its airfield and services over the following day or two, airport officers introduced.
The airport is in an evacuation zone, however as a result of it’s essential infrastructure, it’s “exempt from the storm evacuation order and can keep open till a closure is important,” airport officers stated in a press release.
It’s been 101 years since Tampa final had a direct hit from a significant hurricane.
Sep 26, 11:36 AM EDT
Sarasota, Tampa-area faculties shut
Hillsborough County Public Schools in Tampa can be closed Monday via Thursday because of the storm. Instead, some faculties will function as storm shelters, the district stated.
In Sarasota County, faculties can be closed on Tuesday.
Sep 26, 11:34 AM EDT
First necessary evacuation orders issued
Mandatory evacuation orders are in place for coastal components of Hillsborough County, Florida. Over 300,000 persons are anticipated to evacuate, officers introduced Monday, with emergency shelters opening at 2 p.m. Monday.
Hillsborough County might withstand 15 toes of storm surge and 30 straight hours of tropical storm pressure winds, Florida Emergency Management Director Tim Dudley stated.
County Administrator Bonnie Wise added, “We didn’t make this determination simply, however the storm poses a critical menace, and we should do every part we are able to shield our residents.”
Sep 26, 10:43 AM EDT
NASA rolling Artemis rocket again off launch pad
NASA stated it would roll the Artemis I rocket off the launch pad and again to the car meeting constructing on Monday night time because of the storm.
“Managers met Monday morning and made the choice based mostly on the most recent climate predictions related to Hurricane Ian, after further knowledge gathered in a single day didn’t present bettering anticipated circumstances for the Kennedy Space Center space,” NASA stated in a press release. “The determination permits time for workers to deal with the wants of their households and shield the built-in rocket and spacecraft system.”
Sep 26, 10:08 AM EDT
Floodwater security tricks to keep in mind
As Ian approaches, listed here are a number of commonsense methods to assist keep away from pointless threat from floodwaters:
–Before flooding, lookup your neighborhood’s flood zone and decide if your house or enterprise is vulnerable to flooding. Come up with an evacuation plan and ensure your automotive has a full tank of gasoline. Stock up on non-perishable meals.
–After flooding, guarantee your consuming water is sanitized and wash your fingers totally after contact with floodwaters. Disinfect objects which have come into contact with floodwater earlier than providing them to kids or toddlers.
–Try to keep away from publicity with floodwaters for lengthy durations of time to stop bodily harm. Wear waterproof boots you probably have them. Do not try to drive over flooded streets because it might harm the automotive and strand passengers.
Sep 26, 10:01 AM EDT
White House carefully monitoring Ian
The White House is “carefully monitoring” the hurricane, a White House official instructed ABC News.
President Joe Biden accredited Florida’s emergency help request this weekend “as quickly as he obtained it,” the official stated.
“He additionally directed his workforce to surge Federal help to the area nicely earlier than landfall,” the official stated. “FEMA has already deployed workers there and pre-positioned meals, water, and mills.”
Biden was scheduled to journey to Florida on Monday however that journey has been postponed because of the storm.
-ABC News’ Karen Travers
Sep 26, 8:23 AM EDT
Hurricane watch issued for Tampa, Fort Myers, Naples
Ian is predicted to change into main Category 3 hurricane Monday night time with winds of 115 mph.
As Ian passes Cuba, it’s anticipated to quickly intensify, turning into a Category 4 hurricane because it strikes via the Gulf. Hurricane warnings are in impact for Cuba and the Cayman Islands.
Models are break up with regards to Ian’s landfall in Florida; impacts may very well be as far north as Panama City and as far south as Fort Myers.
Some fashions forecast landfall by Wednesday afternoon between Tampa and Fort Myers, whereas different fashions predict landfall on the finish of the week close to Panama City or Apalachicola.
Hurricane watches have been issued in Tampa, Fort Myers and Naples.
-ABC News’ Max Golembo
Sep 26, 5:20 AM EDT
Storm turns into Hurricane Ian
The National Hurricane Center declared Ian a hurricane on Monday, because the storm gained power on its method towards Florida.
“A Hurricane Watch has been issued alongside the west coast of Florida from north of Englewood to the Anclote River, together with Tampa Bay,” the middle stated on Monday.
– ABC News’ Max Golembo
Sep 25, 10:19 PM EDT
NASA to reconvene on whether or not to take Artemis rocket off launchpad
NASA hasn’t determined whether or not to go away its Artemis I rocket on the launchpad because it displays Tropical Storm Ian’s path towards Florida, the company stated Sunday.
The federal house company’s mission managers will proceed discussions on Monday in regards to the subsequent steps as its rocket was delayed once more.
On Saturday, NASA scrapped its third deliberate launch try of Artemis I due to climate issues. Artemis I used to be scheduled to launch on Sept. 27.
Engineers will resolve if the rocket must roll again off the launch pad. If they don’t roll it again, the following doable launch date is Sunday, Oct. 2.
Tropical Storm Ian is forecast to strengthen into a significant hurricane because it nears Florida.
NASA needed to scrub the primary launch try on Aug. 29 due to a defective temperature sensor and the second try on Sept. 3 because of a liquid hydrogen leak.
If the Oct. 2 launch doesn’t occur, the rocket can be taken again to the Vehicle Assembly Building on the Kennedy Space Center till the workforce decides on the following date.
-ABC News’ Gina Sunseri, Mary Kekatos and Nadine El-Bawab
Sep 25, 10:27 PM EDT
Ian strengthens as soon as once more, forecast to change into hurricane on Monday
Tropical Storm Ian has strengthened with most sustained winds at 60 mph and is predicted to get stronger all through the night time as atmospheric circumstances change into extra favorable for the storm.
Ian is forecast to change into a hurricane on Monday, turning into much more intense doubtless into Tuesday.
Ian is shifting to the northwest to the Northwest at 12 mph, with the middle situated 160 miles away from Grand Cayman.
Jamaica and the Cayman Islands are anticipated to expertise heavy rain, a heavy surge and doable flash flooding over the following 24 hours.
-ABC News’ Dan Peck
Sep 25, 5:45 PM EDT
Ian weakens barely however will regain power in a single day
Tropical Storm Ian has weakened barely, however it’s anticipated to not solely strengthen however quickly intensify in a single day because it travels over heat waters within the Caribbean.
As of 5 p.m. ET, the storm system had most sustained winds of 45 mph and was shifting west-northwest at 12 mph, with the middle situated about 220 miles away from Grand Cayman.
Dry air forward of the storm has delayed the strengthening pattern thus far. But the speedy intensification is predicted to happen Monday into Tuesday because the system continues throughout the northwestern Caribbean and closes in on western Cuba.
Over the following 24 hours, the outer bands will influence Jamaica and the Cayman Islands, bringing rounds of heavy rain, doable flash flooding and storm surge. Later Monday and into Monday night time, Ian can be closing in on western Cuba and can doubtless deliver important wind and storm surge impacts to the area.
A hurricane warning is in impact for Grand Cayman and parts of western Cuba. A tropical storm watch has been issued for parts of western Cuba, in addition to the decrease Florida Keys, together with Key West.
As of 5 p.m., the forecast monitor was nudged barely eastward. Overall, the forecast steering variability and uncertainty will stay excessive, and the monitor for the place the storm can be from the center to the top of the week will proceed to shift over the following 24 to 48 hours.
-ABC News’ Dan Peck
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