Hurricane Center Watching Area Off East Coast of Florida

Current Situation

As of 08:00 AM EST on August 28, 2023, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued a Tropical Storm Watch for the east coast of Florida from Jupiter Inlet to Sebastian Inlet. A Tropical Storm Watch means that tropical storm conditions are possible within the next 36 hours.

A tropical depression, designated as TD 9, has formed in the Atlantic Ocean and is expected to strengthen into a tropical storm later today. The NHC is monitoring the system closely and will provide updates as necessary.

Forecast Track and Intensity

According to the latest forecast track from the NHC, TD 9 is expected to move northwestward towards the Florida coast over the next few days. The storm is expected to strengthen into a tropical storm later today and could become a hurricane by early next week.

Impacts

The primary impacts from TD 9 are expected to be heavy rainfall, strong winds, and coastal flooding. Rainfall totals of 6-12 inches are possible along the east coast of Florida, with isolated areas receiving up to 20 inches. Strong winds could also cause power outages and damage to structures. Coastal flooding is likely in areas where the storm surge is expected to be 2-4 feet above normal tide levels.

Preparations

Residents in the affected areas should take the following precautions:

• Monitor the latest forecasts and advisories from the NHC.
• Have an evacuation plan in place and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.
• Gather essential supplies such as food, water, flashlights, and batteries.
• Secure loose outdoor objects and bring them indoors.
• Elevate valuables to higher floors.
• Fill up your gas tank and have extra cash on hand.

Tips and Tricks

• Stay informed. Monitor the latest forecasts and advisories from the NHC and local news sources.
• Be prepared to evacuate. Have an evacuation plan in place and be ready to leave at a moment's notice.
• Protect your property. Secure loose outdoor objects and bring them indoors. Elevate valuables to higher floors.
• Stock up on supplies. Gather essential supplies such as food, water, flashlights, and batteries.
• Fill up your gas tank. In the event of an evacuation, you may need to travel long distances.
• Have extra cash on hand. ATMs and credit card machines may not be available during a power outage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Do not ignore evacuation orders. If you are ordered to evacuate, do so immediately.
• Do not drive through flooded areas. Even a few inches of water can cause your car to stall.
• Do not go outside during a hurricane. Winds can be strong enough to cause serious injury or death.
• Do not use candles or open flames during a power outage. This can lead to a fire.

Why It Matters

Hurricanes can be dangerous and life-threatening storms. It is important to be prepared for the possibility of a hurricane and to take steps to protect yourself and your property.

Benefits of Being Prepared

Being prepared for a hurricane can help you to:

• Stay safe. By following the tips and precautions outlined in this article, you can reduce your risk of injury or death during a hurricane.
• Protect your property. Taking steps to secure your property can help to prevent damage and loss.
• Recover more quickly. By having a plan in place and gathering essential supplies, you can make the recovery process after a hurricane easier and faster.

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between a hurricane watch and a hurricane warning?
A: A hurricane watch means that hurricane conditions are possible within the next 48 hours. A hurricane warning means that hurricane conditions are expected within the next 36 hours.

Q: What should I do if I am under a hurricane watch or warning?
A: Monitor the latest forecasts and advisories from the NHC and local news sources. Have an evacuation plan in place and be ready to evacuate if necessary. Gather essential supplies such as food, water, flashlights, and batteries. Secure loose outdoor objects and bring them indoors. Elevate valuables to higher floors. Fill up your gas tank and have extra cash on hand.

Q: Where can I find more information about hurricanes?
A: The National Hurricane Center website is a good source of information on hurricanes. You can also find information on the websites of your local emergency management agency and the National Weather Service.

Tables

Table 1: Historical Hurricane Impacts on the East Coast of Florida

Table 2: Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale

Table 3: Estimated Hurricane Damage Costs in the United States