Tropical Storm Idalia is heading back out to sea after leaving a trail of flooding and devastation throughout the Southeast.
Idalia was a major hurricane when it came ashore Wednesday in a remote area of Florida, shredding homes and submerging streets.
It weakened to a tropical storm but still carried 60 mph winds as it reached coastal North Carolina.
We will be updating this article as the storm continues to move across the East Coast and into our coverage area.
Here's the breakdown:
- Happening now: After pounding Florida, Idalia swung east, flooding many of South Carolina’s beaches and leaving some in the state and North Carolina without power before heading back into the Atlantic Ocean.
- Travel disruption: The storm comes ahead of the busy Labor Day weekend. Several airlines have issued waivers for those traveling near the affected areas.
- International impact: Idalia led to flooding in parts of western Cuba, leaving hundreds of thousands without electricity by Tuesday. After traveling across the Gulf of Mexico, Idalia came ashore Wednesday morning near Keaton Beach, pummeling Florida’s remote and lightly populated Big Bend region with powerful winds.
- Florida damage: The storm left as many as a half-million customers without power in Florida and other states at one point as it ripped down power poles and lines. Still, it was far less destructive than feared, providing only glancing blows to Tampa Bay and other more populated areas as it came ashore with 125 mph (201 kph) winds in rural Florida.
In our area:
By 5 p.m., everyone in our coverage area should be dry and clouds will quickly clear out behind the rain.
Northeastern North Carolina is under a Flood Watch until Midnight.
Outside of the rain, it will be very windy. Northeast winds of 20-30 MPH gusting to 45 MPH. This will bring us tidal flooding.
Expect around 2 feet of inundation during the next several high tide cycles around 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. Thursday as well as 11 a.m. and 11 p.m., Friday.
Live blog
Thursday - 12:05 p.m.
Scripps News
Biden approves major disaster declaration as Idalia exits US
Thursday - 12 p.m.
Thursday - 10:41 a.m.
Thursday - 10:14 a.m.
We continue to caution against unnecessary travel along portions of NC-12. Rangers have reported hazardous conditions from blowing sand, ocean overwash and flooding from rainfall.Photo was taken near Sandy Bay Sound Access, located between the villages of Frisco and Hatteras. pic.twitter.com/npItK7Xc1f
— Cape Hatteras National Seashore (@CapeHatterasNPS) August 31, 2023
Thursday - 8:25 a.m.
Weather
Patrick's First Warning Forecast: Flood threat continues, even as sun returns
Thursday - 8:21 a.m.
As we said earlier, today is NOT a day to be driving on NC12 unless absolutely necessary. But if you are out on the highway, be aware that our crews are out there clearing the road and working to shore up the protective dune. Please slow down and give them room to work! pic.twitter.com/fAtUC26giR
— NCDOT NC12 (@NCDOT_NC12) August 31, 2023
Thursday - 7:44 a.m.
Thursday - 7:41 a.m.
The CBBT is currently operating with Level 1 wind restrictions. Speed limit is 45 mph and no passing. For new vehicle restrictions, visit https://t.co/sQr5Is4Bhq. August 31, 2023 7:40 AM
— CBBT (@FollowTheGulls) August 31, 2023
Thursday - 7:16 a.m.
Thursday - 7:10 a.m.
Thursday - 7 a.m.
Thursday - 6:42 a.m.
Yes, NC 12 is open and passable. BUT this is NOT a day to be out on the roads. Standing rainwater, blowing sand and strong winds can be expected anywhere you go today. High tide is coming up in another 90 minutes or so. If you must drive today, do it with EXTREME CAUTION. pic.twitter.com/4LoB3MuJZS
— NCDOT NC12 (@NCDOT_NC12) August 31, 2023
Thursday - 6 a.m.
Wednesday - 11: 30 p.m.
Wednesday - 7:23 p.m.
News
North Carolina braces for high wind, rain, surges from Idalia
Wednesday - 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday - 4:36 p.m.
Weather
School closures reported in NE North Carolina ahead of Idalia impacts
Wednesday - 4:30 p.m.
Wednesday - 4 p.m.
Wednesday - 12 p.m.
Wednesday - 10 a.m.
