Idalia Approaches Florida: Category 3 Hurricane Threatens State

Tropical Storm Idalia is expected to strengthen into a Category 3 hurricane and make landfall in Florida's Big Bend region, bringing dangerous rain, winds, and storm surge. Mandatory and voluntary evacuations have been issued in several counties, and over 5,000 National Guard members have been activated. The storm is forecast to rapidly intensify and could cause significant impacts along Florida's Gulf Coast, with the potential for life-threatening storm surge up to 12 feet. Schools and airports are closing, and power outages are expected. Georgia is also preparing for the storm's arrival.