Warnings were released across Florida the morning of Wednesday the 30th of August, concerning the increasing impact to come from Hurricane Idalia over the course of the day and the following week.
The US Hurricane Centre initially released this warning concerning the “catastrophic” storm surge that Hurricane Idalia is set to unleash in Florida, including destructive winds to match.
According to reports, the storm is expected to become a Cat. 4 hurricane very swiftly. The forecast predicts that the hurricane will make landfall at Florida’s northern panhandle around noon local time on Wednesday the 30th of August. Across North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, there are also expected to be heavy rains and strong winds.
Of Florida’s 67 counties, 28 are currently putting into action a form of evacuation for residents and tourists alike. Most of these counties are along Florida’s upper Gulf Coast where impact is expected to be the largest.
Port Canaveral has decided to close due to the predicted “sustained gale force winds” that are to come. There are also no cruise ships due to visit during the course of the day due to the storm.
Theme parks in Orlando do still remain open, however, though some attractions have been closed as safety measures. Disney World Florida was among these and closed the Typhoon Lagoon water park as well as their miniature golf course for the duration of the day. Some are planning to continue regular operations, such as Universal.
The Tampa Airport was closed on Tuesday the 29th of August in preparation, having sustained some damages that will be investigated later in the week after the storm calms.
Many cancellations for travellers to Florida are expected and consumers are being warned of the impact the storm could have on a pre-arranged trip. As always, we advise all consumers booking with a PTS member get in touch with their travel agent directly if they believe the storms in the US could impact their journey.
So, if you’re looking forward to your next holiday, don’t wait, book now with a travel business registered with PTS for 100% financial protection through trust. Or, if you’d like assistance choosing one of the lovely PTS members to book with, you can contact PTS directly at 0207 190 9988 or check us out on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
And if you’d like to learn more about your financial protection with PTS or how the Package Travel Regulations protect your holiday booking, check out our pages and Travel Advice.
