Hurricane Idalia Updates
Forecast UpdateAs of 8:00PM EDT, the National Hurricane Center has Hurricane Idalia located approximately 155 miles WSW of Tampa, Florida. Hurricane Idalia strengthened to a Category 2 Hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 105 mph, moving north at 16 mph. Coastal Collier County remains under a Tropical Storm Warning. The Storm Surge Watch is no longer in effect for Collier County. A Tropical Storm Warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected somewhere within the warning area. Current projections have Hurricane Idalia continuing to increase strength, becoming a major hurricane over the eastern Gulf of Mexico before it reaches the Big Bend coast of Florida. The latest maps from the NOAA National Hurricane Center are included below for reference. While the City of Naples is outside the projected path and most of the storm's impacts occurred today, the City urges all residents and visitors to stay informed on local updates. Regular operating hours for all City of Naples administrative offices and facilities will be in effect tomorrow. No closures or schedule changes at this time. STAY SAFE DURING KING TIDES AND FLOODINGAs the outer bands of Hurricane Idalia passed over the City of Naples today, several streets were flooded and some were impassable. It is important for residents and visitors to take precautionary measures when encountering flood waters. Overnight tonight, the City of Naples is predicted to have a high tide of 2.66-feet at 1:36AM and tomorrow afternoon at 12:53PM an exceptionally high tide is predicted to be 3.71-feet. Higher than normal tides are expected for the next few days. To view tide predictions, go to NOAA Tide Predictions. Those living in low-lying areas that typically experience flooding during high tides should take necessary precautions. With rain, storm tides, and an overnight high tide, the City strongly urges residents in low-lying areas to avoid flooded roadways. DO NOT WALK INTO FLOOD WATER Did you know that it only takes 6-inches of water to knock you off your feet? Flood water can contain chemicals, sewage, as well as unseen underwater debris which can be sharp and cause injury. Often times the flood waters depth can change unexpectedly due to storm drains, washed-out roads, and other unseen variables. DO NOT DRIVE INTO FLOOD WATER Water over the roadway can cause many hazards to motorists. Just a few inches of water can cause your vehicle to hydroplane cause the driver to lose control. In as little as 6 inches of water, water can start entering into the vehicle cabin area. Water that is 12 inches deep, can float many cars, especially if the water is moving. Driving through water can damage your car. Water in the engine will cause your vehicle to hydro lock or stall due to water in the air intake, which freezes the pistons. In many cases this damage is irreversible. Transmission damage causing the gears to slip can also occur. Driving through water can also cause brake failure or damage as the rotors can become warped. DO NOT DRIVE AROUND OR MOVE BARRICADES Barriers are in place to keep you safe. Don’t put your life in danger by driving around barricades. Even if it looks clear, water over roads can deteriorate the roadway. City of Naples Parking GaragesThe City of Naples Public Parking Garages located off of 8th Street South were utilized for storage of personal vehicles in preparation for the storm. Storing personal vehicles is PROHIBITED in the City's parking garages. Per City Ordinance Section 36-66, any vehicle left beyond 48-hours is subject to towing. If you or someone you know chose to store a vehicle in the City's public parking garage, please have it removed by 5:00 PM tomorrow, Wednesday, August 30th. |
