Welcome to our round the clock coverage of Hurricane Idalia. As the storm continues to target Florida we will be bringing you live updates throughout the storm.
Welcome to our live coverage of Hurricane Idalia.
As we continue to monitor Hurricane Idalia we are providing live updates and the latest information on the storms impacts here in Central Florida.
We will be updating this page throughout the storm, stay safe everyone!
Hurricane Idalia: LIVE UPDATES NOW ENDED
Hurricane Idalia made landfall early Wednesday morning as a powerful and destructive Category 3 hurricane.
The storm slammed Florida’s Big Bend coast with maximum sustained winds of more than 100 miles per hour and catastrophic flooding.
Thankfully Central Florida avoided the worst of this devastating hurricane, and we are ending our live coverage for our area.
Thank you all for following along with our round the lock live, local coverage here in Orlando.
The hurricane season runs through Nov. 30, with August and September typically the peak, if another storm (hopefully not) targets our area we will again provide full coverage here at Gotta Go Orlando.
Hurricane Idalia is now moving inland after churning its way into Florida’s Big Bend on Wednesday morning as an extremely dangerous storm with maximum sustained winds of more than 100 miles per hour.
As the National Hurricane Center warned that catastrophic storm surges were occurring along the coast, it is feared that many areas could suffer life-threatening flooding of up to 16 feet of water
Idalia made landfall near Keaton Beach at 8 a.m as a Category 3 storm with maximum sustained winds of 125 miles per hour.
As the storm churned through its way through the Gulf of Mexico, Idalia rapidly intensified to a Category 4 hurricane overnight before being downgraded as it reached Florida’s west coast.
Fortunately here in Central Florida we can now breathe a sigh of relief, but sadly for others, the storm has left a devastating trail of destruction in its wake, with at least two deaths reported amid Hurricane Idalia's trek across the state.
Along the coastline, homes were underwater up to their rooflines and some structures, boats and docks were being swept away by the power of the storm surge.
Away from the coast, authories warned that high levels of rainfall could increase the chance of inland flooding.
While Central Florida dodged the worst effects of Idalia, outer bands of the storm brought heavy rain. A tornado watch was issued for all of Central Florid through 3 p.m. today, but the watch was canceled just before noon.
In Tampa, there is major flooding including Tampa's iconic waterfront Bayshore Blvd.
Hurricane Idalia makes landfall in Florida
Wednesday, August 30, 7.50 am
Hurricane Idalia has officially made landfall in Florida as a Major Category 3 storm in the Big Bend area near Keaton Beach at 7:45 am. Wednesday, according to the National Hurricane Center.
Idalia made landfall as a Category 3 storm with maximum sustained winds of 125 mph.
The storm is expected to weaken after landfall, but is forecast to maintain hurricane status as it moves across Georgia.
Hurricane Idalia downgraded to Category 3
Wednesday, August 30, 7.25 am
Hurricane Idalia has been downgraded to a Category 3 storm, with maximum sustained winds near 125 mph, with higher gusts. The system is still expected to hit Florida's Big Bend as a major hurricane by around 8 am.
Tornado Warning issued for Marion County until 7.30 am
Wednesday, August 30, 6.55 am WARNING CANCELLED
People in affected areas should take cover in an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, avoiding windows. Those in a mobile home or in a vehicle should move to the closest substantial shelter, protecting themselves from flying debris
Tornado Warning issued for parts of Polk County
Wednesday, August 30, 6.10 am
The National Weather Service issued a tornado warning for northwestern Highlands, northeastern Hardee and southeastern Polk counties until 7.00 am.
Tornado Watch in effect for much of Central Florida
Wednesday, August 30, 6.10 am
Idalia will make landfall along the Gulf Coast as a Cat 4 hurricane this morning. Locally here in Central Florida gusty squalls and tornadoes will remain a threat today.
A Tornado Watch is in effect for Lake, Seminole, Orange, Osceola, Volusia, and Brevard Counties through 3pm
Hurricane Idalia now a Category 4 storm
Wednesday, August 30, 5.10 am
Hurricane Idalia has strengthened into a Category 4 storm as it churns towards Florida's Gulf Coast.
The storm is expected to make landfall along the coast of Florida's Big Bend region, where catastrophic storm surge and destructive winds are expected.
The hurricane is currently 60 miles west of Cedar Key and about 90 miles south of Tallahassee, with maximum sustained winds of 130 mph.
Tornado Warning issued for Orange and Osceola counties
Wednesday, August 30, 4.05 am
A TORNADO WARNING has been issued for Orange and Osceola counties until 4:30 a.m.
National Hurricane Center Update
Wednesday, August 30, 4.00 am
Hurricane Hunter data indicate that Hurricane Idalia is still strengthening. Catastrophic storm surge and destructive winds will begin soon in the Florida Big Bend near where the core of the hurricane makes landfall.
The Skyway Bridge in Tampa Bay now closed
Wednesday, August 30, 3.45 am
The Florida Highway Patrol said The Skyway Bridge in the Tampa Bay area is now closed to all traffic as sustained winds are over 50 mph.
Idalia is now a Category 3 Hurricane
Wednesday, August 30, 2.00 am
Idalia is now a Category 3 Major Hurricane. Continued intensification is expected until landfall later this morning. Now is the time to shelter in place. Ensure you have multiple ways to receive warnings that will wake you up through the night.
Port Canaveral now closed
Wednesday, August 30, 12.45 am
The U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port (COTP) has set hurricane condition "ZULU" for Port Canaveral: Sustained gale force winds are predicted within 12 hours.
Port Canaveral is now closed and has ceased all waterside and vessel shoreside Port operations until further notice.
Based on current forecasts and storm information, Port Canaveral is not issuing a marina evacuation order for Hurricane Idalia. Vessels berthed at marinas located in Port Canaveral should consult with their marina owner/operator and comply with marina specific requirements and precautions.
Idalia forecast to become extremely dangerous Category 4 storm
Tuesday, August 29, 11.35 pm
Hurricane Idalia is now expected to make landfall in Florida as an "extremely dangerous" Category 4 storm when it makes landfall early Wednesday, according to the 11 pm advisory from the National Hurricane Center.
Idalia is currently packing maximum sustained winds of 110 mph, only 1 mph shy of being a Category 3 storm.
Idalia is expected to gain sustained winds of 115 mph and intensify into a Category 3 hurricane overnight.
The NHC warn that Florida's Big Bend will see the most impactful storm surge, of 10 to 15 feet.
Locally here in Central Florida, tornadoes are a possibility, with a Tornado Watch currently in effect for Lake County through 6 am.
The main threats for east central FL will be winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts in excess of 45 mph, especially in the strongest squalls, with 1-3” of rainfall, with locally higher amounts.
Tornado watch is now in effect for Lake County
Tuesday, August 29, 11.20 pm
A tornado watch is now in effect for more than 7 million people across central and western Florida, including Lake County here in Central Florida until 6:00 am, Wednesday.
Publix closing many stores early
Tuesday, August 29, 7.35 pm
Publix have adjusted hours for 181 Florida stores in preparation for Hurricane Idalia.
The stores with modified hours are in locations that are expected to be impacted by Hurricane Idalia.
Stores along the west coast near Tampa and Sarasota are scheduled to close at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, and reopen on Wednesday at 9 a.m.
For a list of Publix locations and hours, visit the store’s website here.
Winn-Dixie closes stores including Orlando
Tuesday, August 29, 7.40 pm
Winn-Dixie have closed dozens of its grocery stores in Florida, including Orlando.
For a full list of closures and locations, visit the stores website here.
SeaWorld Orlando to open late on Wednesday
Tuesday, August 29, 7.15 pm
SeaWorld Orlando has announced operational updates for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 30.
SeaWorld Orlando will open at noon on Wednesday, August 30.
Aquatica Orlando will be closed on Wednesday, August 30, with normal operations expected to resume on Thursday, August 31.
All date-intended tickets for closure days have been extended through August 31, 2024 and requires no action to be taken.
Discovery Cove will operate normal hours Tuesday, August 29, and will be closed Wednesday, August 30. Normal operations will resume on Thursday, August 31
Uber will provide free rides to/from FL evacuation centers
Tuesday, August 29, 6.50 pm
Uber is offering free round-trip rides to and from evacuation centers in Florida for those impacted by Hurricane Idalia.
Passengers can use the code "Idalia relief" in the Uber app to claim rides. The offer has a value of up to $35.
Hurricane Idalia strengthens to Category 2
Tuesday, August 29, 5.30 pm
In the 5 pm update from the National Hurricane Center,, Idalia has strengthened into a Category 2 hurricane with maximum winds of 100 mph as it lashes Florida ahead of a potentially catastrophic landfall on the state's west coast.
Little change to Idalia's track with the latest update. Threats to east central Florida remain the same. Conditions will start to deteriorate this afternoon, so be sure to have multiple ways of receiving weather alerts!
Strong to damaging wind gusts and a few tornadoes are two of the main threats across east central Florida tonight into Wednesday. Ensure you and everyone in your family knows where to go within your residence to stay safe as Idalia moves across Florida today into Wednesday.
Walt Disney World closing water park & miniature golf
Tuesday, August 29, 5.20 pm
Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, plus Winter Summerland Miniature Golf and Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf will be closed on August 30.
LEGOLAND Florida to remain open
Tuesday, August 29, 5.10 pm
LEGOLAND Florida Resort will remain open tomorrow, Wednesday, 8/30. While the parks and hotels will be open, guests may experience limited park operations due to weather conditions. Learn more at http://LEGOLAND.com/hurricane.
Peppa Pig Theme Park to open Wednesday
Tuesday, August 29, 5.05 pm
Peppa Pig Theme Park will remain open tomorrow, Wednesday, 8/30. While our Resort will be open, guests may experience limited park operations due to weather conditions. Learn more at http://PeppaPigThemePark.com/hurricane.
Leu Gardens to close Wednesday
Tuesday, August 29, 4.55 pm
For the safety and security of visitors and staff, Harry P. Leu Gardens will be CLOSED on Wednesday, August 30, 2023. They hope to resume normal operating hours on Thursday, August 31, 2023, pending a full inspection of the Gardens following the storm.
Universal Orlando Update
Tuesday, August 29, 4.35 pm
Universal Orlando Resort theme parks including Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Volcano Bay are planning to open and operate as normal at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 30.
However, they will not offer Early Park Admission benefit for on-site hotel guests, select Annual Passholders and other select travel trade clients on this day while teams prepare the parks for opening after the storm.
Hotels remain operational as they focus on taking care of guests.
Florida U-Haul Stores offering free self-storage
Tuesday, August 29, 4.30 pm
U-Haul is offering 30 days of free self-storage and U-Boxccontainer usage at 54 facilities across Florida to residents who stand to be impacted by Tropical Storm Idalia.
Locations include 598 W. Hwy. 436 Altamonte Springs, 8546 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy.
Kissimmee, 600 S. Kirkman Road Orlando, 7803 N. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando and more.
Orlando International Airport remains open
Tuesday, August 29, 4.00 pm
MCO have issued a new update:
Operational Update - Hurricane Idalia
Based upon the current forecast of Hurricane Idalia, our airport will remain open and maintain a state of readiness. If conditions warrant, a temporary cessation of commercial operations may occur. Please continue to work with your airline in regards to your travel plans. For general airport delays, please visit: https://nasstatus.faa.gov/
Icon Park Orlando closing attractions
Tuesday, August 29, 3.45 pm
In anticipation of the storm arrival, entertainment destination Icon Park on International Drive has announced that The Wheel and Carousel will be closed on Wednesday, Aug. 3
For further questions on other ICON Park restaurants and attractions, please contact their business directly.
Discover Cove to close Wednesday
Tuesday, August 29, 3.30 pm
Discovery Cove has announced its closing ahead of the incoming storm.
The park announced, "Due to the projected path of Hurricane Idalia, Discovery Cove will be closed on Wednesday, August 30. We are taking all necessary precautions to protect the safety of animals, employees and guests."
The park expect operation will resume on August 31.
Updated School Closures
Tuesday, August 29, 3.15 pm
As Hurricane Idalia affects Central Florida, we will be keeping yo up to date with all the latest school closures.
Here is a list county-by-county.
Orange County
Important update for OCPS families:
Based on this morning’s forecast, sustained wind speeds will exceed 35 MPH on the west side of Orange County and as a result there will be no school for students on Wednesday, Aug. 30.
All after-school activities must end tonight by 8 p.m. and will be canceled for Wednesday. OCPS are planning on resuming school on Thursday, Aug. 31.
Osceola County
Earlier today Osceola County announced that schools in the county are expected to remain open tomorrow, but now that decision has been changed.
This afternoon, Governor Ron DeSantis amended Executive Order 23-171 for Hurricane Idalia to now include Osceola County. As such, all Osceola district public schools will be closed on Wednesday, August 30. All district offices and school campuses will also be closed. All after-school school activities, events, and programs are cancelled today and tomorrow. At this time, plans are to reopen schools and district departments on Thursday, August 31.
Seminole County
School officials in Seminole County said afterschool activities and evets will continue as usual on Tuesday, Aug. 29.
Seminole County public schools will be closed on Wednesday, Aug. 30.
Officials said they will provide an update on resuming school and extracurricular activities at a later date.
Lake County
All after-school events are canceled Tuesday for Lake County public schools, with the exception of Extended Learning Centers, which will be open until 6 p.m. Parents, however, are asked to pick up their children from ELC as early as possible.
Schools and offices will be closed on Wednesday, Aug. 29.
The Villages Elementary and Lost Lake Elementary will be used as storm shelters. Both will serve special-needs guests and are pet-friendly.
Lake County expects to reopen schools and offices on Thursday.
Rollins College
Tuesday evening classes remain as scheduled.
On Wednesday, August 30, no in-person classes will be held. Faculty will implement their hurricane plan from their syllabi, which allows for alternative instructional modalities (ex. a virtual option, alternative assignment, etc.) All in-person campus programming and activities are cancelled Wednesday. .
Valencia College
Valencia College will be closed on Wednesday, 8/30, due to the potential impact of Hurricane Idalia. In-person and online classes will not be held during this time.
University of Central Florida
Academic and most campus operations are suspended Wednesday, Aug. 30. Students, faculty, and staff should remain indoors and off the roads during periods of possible intermittent tropical winds and weather.
Standard operations will continue through 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 29, and are planned to resume Thursday, Aug. 31.
Orlando, Osceola & Brevard now in State Of Emergency
Tuesday, August 29, 3.10 pm
A state of emergency has now been declared in 49 Florida counties, according to an amendment to an executive order from Gov. Ron DeSantis.
Yesterday, there were 46 counties under a state of emergency. Brevard, Orange and Osceola counties were added to the executive order today.
Osceola County Schools to close
Tuesday, August 29, 3.00 pm
Earlier today Osceola County announced that schools in the county are expected to remain open tomorrow, but now that decision has been changed.
This afternoon, Governor Ron DeSantis amended Executive Order 23-171 for Hurricane Idalia to now include Osceola County. As such, all Osceola district public schools will be closed on Wednesday, August 30. All district offices and school campuses will also be closed. All after-school school activities, events, and programs are cancelled today and tomorrow. At this time, plans are to reopen schools and district departments on Thursday, August 31.
Tampa Bay Bucs cancel practice Wednesday
Tuesday, August 29, 2.00 pm
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have canceled Wednesday's scheduled practice as a precaution due to threat Hurricane Idalia could have on local area.
The team said Tuesday it had also adjusted Thursday's practice session to begin at 10:45 a.m. ET and would be monitoring the storm should more schedule changes be needed.
Orange County Schools to close
Tuesday, August 29, 12.50 pm
Based on this morning’s forecast, sustained wind speeds will exceed 35 MPH on the west side of Orange County and as a result there will be no school for students on Wednesday, Aug. 30.
All after-school activities must end tonight by 8 p.m. and will be canceled for Wednesday. OCPS are planning on resuming school on Thursday, Aug. 31.
Osceola County Update
Tuesday, August 29, 12.40 pm
Osceola County have held a news briefing saying that the county will be spared the worst of the weather, although residents should still make preparations for the storm and be alert in case of any deviations in the hurricane’s track.
Kissimmee Mayor Olga Gonzalez urged people to make final preparations before weather conditions begin to deteriorate this afternoon.
Locally, the storm is forecast to produce between 2 to 4 inches of rain and sustained winds of 25 to 30 mph, with gusts of up to 45 mph.
Schools in the county are expected to remain open tomorrow, and officials said they are not opening shelters at this time but will monitor the storm’s development and have them on standby.
Florida activates search-and-rescue teams
Tuesday, August 29, 12.35 pm
Every Florida's Urban Search and Rescue teams have been activated ahead of Hurricane Idalia's arrival. 8 teams made up of close to 600 search-and-rescue personnel are ready to help where needed.
Starlink internet devices deployed in case of service disruption
Tuesday, August 29, 12.25 pm
Gov. Ron DeSantis has deployed over 200 Starlink internet devices across areas expected to be impacted by Hurricane Idalia.
Nearly 250 devices have been deployed so far, with over 500 staged and ready to go.
FAA rerouting planes before Idalia hits Florida
Tuesday, August 29, 12.00 pm
The Federal Aviation Administration has announced that they have started rerouting planes and closing Gulf routes today as Idalia continues to target Florida.
The agency say it is possible that they may have to pause flights in and out of Palm Beach International Airport, Miami International Airport and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.
National Hurricane Center 11 am update
Tuesday, August 29, 11.20 am
The National Hurricane Center has just released its 11 am Hurricane Idalia update.
Idalia has gained additional strength Tuesday morning and has maximum sustained winds of 85 mph with stronger wind gusts. The storm currently remains a Category 1 hurricane for now, but it is expected to undergo rapid intensification and become an extremely dangerous Category 3 hurricane before landfall on Wednesday.
The intensity on Wednesday morning just before landfall has increased in the forecast up to 125 mph, only 5 mph below Category 4 strength.
Idalia is located about 275 miles south-southwest of Tampa, Florida, and is moving northward at 14 mph. Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 15 miles from the center and tropical storm-force winds extend outward up to 160 miles.
Landfall is still expected in the Big Bend area of Florida early Wednesday morning.
Amtrak cancels trains and modifies routes
Tuesday, August 29, 11.05 am
Amtrak is canceling several trains and modifying routes in advance of Hurricane Idalia.
The rail line has so far canceled 12 East Coast routes on Tuesday and Wednesday that originate in or terminate in the Orlando and Miami areas. Those routes are the Auto Train, Silver Star, and Silver Meteor. Amtrak has also shortened Palmetto routes on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Amtrak have called the measures “a safety precaution for customers and employees.”
FDOT suspends tolls in several counties
Tuesday, August 29, 11.00 am
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) suspended tolls in Citrus, Hernando Hillsborough, Lake, Pasco, Pinellas and Sumter counties as of 4 a.m. ET on Tuesday.
In addition, as wind becomes stronger later today and into the night, FDOT will coordinate with local law enforcement to close bridges once speeds reach in excess of 40 miles per hour.
Florida Division of Emergency Management issue info line
Tuesday, August 29, 10.30 am
The State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) is up & running! This toll-free hotline is activated to provide additional resources to help Floridians receive accurate & up-to-date information regarding Hurricane Idalia. State Assistance Information Line: 1-800-342-3557
Tampa Bay update
Tuesday, August 29, 9.45 am
Florida residents have been warned to "wrap up preparations" as Idalia gets ever closer to Florida.
The National Weather Service in Tampa Bay have warned of storm surge as high as 4 to 7 inches in Tampa Bay and 8 to 12 inches further north, along with heavy rains and tropical and hurricane force winds, depending on the location. Tornadoes were also possible.
New Walt Disney World statement
Tuesday, August 29, 9.30 am
As Idalia becomes a hurricane, Walt Disney World has issues an update on its preparations for the storm ahead of its arrival Wednesday.
The update posted this morning, asks all guests staying at Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground to remove and stow all outside items, including tents and décor, and take in camper awnings by 6 pm on Tuesday, August 29.
If you’d like to depart early or discuss alternate options for your vacation, please contact WDW at (407) 939-2744.
For Guests looking to modify or cancel their Disney Resort hotel reservations, please visit DisneyWorld.com/Plans.
Orlando International Airport Update
Tuesday, August 29, 8.45 am
Orlando International Airport have shared their latest update on the storm, predicting that, "we do not foresee any significant impact to our operations at this time."
While the airport is confident of no major impacts, they are urging passengers to check with their airline in regards to specific flights.
Here is the update in full:
Operational Update - Hurricane Idalia
Our airport is open and operational. We continue to monitor the status of Hurricane Idalia and we do not foresee any significant impact to our operations at this time. If operational changes occur, we'll post about it. A quick reminder that many airlines may adjust their schedules to better accommodate their travelers during this inclement weather – delays and cancellations may occur. Please make sure to verify with your airline directly for any updates in regards to your specific fight.
Hurricane Idalia is strengthening
Tuesday, August 29, 8.30 am
According to NOAA Hurricane Hunters, Hurricane Idalia is getting stronger. Idalia now has maximum sustained winds of 80 miles per hour with stronger gusts.
Rapid intensification is likely through landfall, and Idalia is forecast to become an extremely dangerous, major hurricane before landfall on Wednesday.
Idalia is located about 320 miles south-southwest of Tampa, Florida, and moving northward at 14 miles per hour. Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 15 miles from the center and tropical storm-force winds extend outward up to 160 miles.
Idalia now a Major Hurricane, continues to target Florida
Tuesday, August 29, 6.00 am
As we continue to monitor Idalia, the storm continues to intensify and officially became a hurricane in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
In the latest update from the National Hurricane Center, Idalia is expected to rapidly intensify into an extremely dangerous major hurricane before making landfall in the Big Bend area of the state on Wednesday.
Currently Idalia is spinning northwest of Cuba with maximum sustained winds of 75 mph and is moving north towards Florida at 14 mph.
The National Hurricane Center are urging residents to prepare now, as life-threatening storm surge and dangerous winds are becoming increasingly likely for large portions of the Florida Gulf Coast. Residents in these areas should follow advice today from local officials.
Destructive winds will occur along the Florida Gulf Coast's Big Bend Region with huge impacts in Levy and Dixie counties. Winds over 100 mph are possible in these areas on Wednesday morning.
Here in Central Florida, if the current track of Idalia continues, the worst of the weather will stay to the west of Central Florida.
Gusty squalls will begin to enter the area this afternoon, increasing in frequency and intensity into tonight. It is expected that the worst effects of Idalia will be felt for the majority of Central Florida late Tuesday and through the day on Wednesday.
Current Theme Park Updates
Monday, August 28, 8.00 pm
With much of the state forecast to experience severe weather, area theme parks are making plans to prepare for the worst of the weather.
Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World has issued a brief statement on its website, detailing its preparations and cancelation policy ahead of the storms predicted impacts on Central Florida.
The update posted at 3pm, Monday, August 28 reads, "Walt Disney World Resort is currently operating under normal conditions. We are closely monitoring the path of the projected weather as we continue to prioritize the safety of our Guests and Cast Members."
The resort has also reassured concerned guests that they can reschedule their upcoming trip or cancel their stay with all customary cancellation fees to be waived.
Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Orlando Resort have issued a statement on its website regarding the current storm that is threatening Florida.
The very brief update this afternoon from Universal at 4.05 pm Monday, August 28 reads, "At this time, our park operations and hours are continuing as normal. We are closely monitoring the weather. Please check back for updates."
The resort has also reassured concerned guests that they can reschedule their trip or cancel their stay with all customary cancellation fees to bewaived.
SeaWorld Orlando
No update at this time.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has enacted its Named Storm Policy and will close at 3 p.m. Tuesday August 29 and remain closed Wednesday, August 30.
The park currently plans to reopen on Thursday, August 31.
In a statement the park commented, "Precautions are in place following the parks’ comprehensive weather preparedness plan to ensure the safety of our animals and ambassadors during this time."
Also at Busch Gardens, Adventure Island Water Park is closing also.
Adventure Island Tampa Bay will be closed Tuesday, August 29 through Thursday, August 31. The park plans to reopen on Friday, September 1.
LEGOLAND Florida / Peppa Pig Theme Park
No update at this time.
Universal Orlando issue brief statement on storm
Monday, August 28, 4.50 pm
Universal Orlando Resort has issued a statement on its website regarding the current storm that is threatening Florida.
The very brief update this afternoon from Universal reads, "At this time, our park operations and hours are continuing as normal. We are closely monitoring the weather. Please check back for updates."
The resort has also assured guests that they can reschedule their trip or cancel their stay with all cancellation fees to be waived.
Walt Disney World issue statement on Storm Idalia
Monday, August 28, 4.20 pm
Walt Disney World has issued a brief statement on its website, detailing its preparations and operational impacts ahead of the storms predicted impacts on Central Florida.
The update reads, "Walt Disney World Resort is currently operating under normal conditions. We are closely monitoring the path of the projected weather as we continue to prioritize the safety of our Guests and Cast Members."
Guests can reschedule their trip or cancel their stay with all cancellation fees to be waived.
Storm Idalia Update
Monday, August 28, 3.55 pm
As we continue to monitor Tropical Storm Idalia, the storm continues to intensify and is now forecast to be a major hurricane over the eastern Gulf of Mexico Tuesday/Wednesday before making landfall between Tampa Bay and the Big Bend area sometime late Tuesday into early Wednesday.
In the latest update Monday afternoon from the National Hurricane Center, Idalia is now nearing the western tip of Cuba, with maximum sustained winds of 70 mph, moving north at 8 mph,.
The National Hurricane Center are urging residents to prepare now, as life-threatening storm surge and dangerous winds are becoming increasingly likely for large portions of the Florida Gulf Coast where a Storm Surge Warning is in effect, including Tampa Bay & the Big Bend.
Currently Idalia is still considered a tropical storm, but it is forecast to become a hurricane later today, Monday. The National Hurricane Center say that as the storm continues on its probable collision course with Florida.
While the National Hurricane Center are still currently predicting a major category 3 storm, the Florida Division of Emergency Management are planning for the storm to hit the west coast of Florida as a huge category 4 storm.
Currently in Central Florida, weather conditions are predicted to include strong gusty winds, especially in squalls, rainfall amounts 2 to 3 inches with locally higher totals of 4 to 5 inches, and a few tornadoes.
Today is the best day for final preparations related to Idalia. Your emergency kit should contain a minimum of 3 days worth of food and water, a first aid kit, phone charger, batteries, a NOAA weather radio, medicine, and extra clothes. Don’t forget about children or pets too.
SunRail to suspend services ahead of storm
Monday, August 28, 3.15 pm
As Tropical Storm Idalia continues to strengthen, with current forecasts predicting that the storm will bring life-threatening storm surges and dangerous winds to Florida, SunRail have announced that they are suspending services.
SunRail services will be suspended Tuesday, 8/29, as SunRail will begin working to prepare the corridor and render it safe prior to the impending storm.
For more information on how SunRail prepares for severe weather click here.
Zoo Tama to close due to projected severe weather
Monday, August 28, 1.30 pm
Due to Tropical Storm Idalia’s potential impact to the Tampa Bay area, ZooTampa at Lowry Park will be closed to guests on Tuesday, August 29, for storm preparations and on Wednesday, August 30, for projected severe weather.
Currently they plan to re-open on Thursday following a thorough park safety assessment.
Zoo School will be closed from Tuesday, August 29 through Thursday, August 31.
ZooTampa say that they have a comprehensive severe weather preparedness plan in place to ensure the safety of animals and team members.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay to close
Monday, August 28, 1.00 pm
Due to the projected path of Tropical Storm Idalia, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has enacted its Named Storm Policy and will close at 3 p.m. Tuesday August 29 and remain closed Wednesday, August 30.
The park currently plans to reopen on Thursday, August 31.
In a statement the park commented, "Precautions are in place following the parks’ comprehensive weather preparedness plan to ensure the safety of our animals and ambassadors during this time."
Also at Busch Gardens, Adventure Island Water Park is closing also.
Adventure Island Tampa Bay will be closed Tuesday, August 29 through Thursday, August 31. The park plans to reopen on Friday, September 1.
Tampa International Airport to close ahead of incoming storm
Monday, August 28, 12.05 pm
As we continue to monitor Tropical Storm Idalia, which is threatening to bring life-threatening storm surges and dangerous winds to parts of Florida, the first major closure of the storm has been announced.
Tampa International Airport will suspend all commercial operations beginning at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday ahead of Tropical Storm Idalia, with the Airport remaining closed until it can assess any damages later in the week. The closure will allow the Airport and its partners to prepare the airfield and terminals, including the securing of jet bridges, ground equipment and any remaining aircraft before Idalia’s expected landfall early Wednesday as a potential major hurricane.
Some cargo and private aircraft operations could continue overnight, but all air traffic will cease by 7 a.m. Tuesday morning. The Airport, including the Main Terminal and Airsides will be closed to all visitors and is not equipped to function as a shelter.
The Airport anticipates reopening Thursday morning, with damage assessments beginning after the storm passes. TPA will closely coordinate the reopening of the Airport with its partners based on roadway safety, facility readiness and staffing. Any changes to the timing will be promptly communicated.
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