Hurricane Idalia wreaked havoc upon Florida and Georgia on Wednesday, leaving destruction and devastation in its wake, but what should you expect from a “Storm Surge?” Here’s everything you need to know about Hurricane Idalia.
Storm Surge Threat
While the storm’s powerful winds and torrential rains were fearsome, the menacing storm surges posed the gravest threat, as stated by the National Hurricane Center (NHC).
Unleashing Unpredictable Chaos
The NHC emphasized that amidst the hurricane’s destruction, storm surges bring the deadliest danger to life and property.
Ocean Waters Could Rise up to 15FT
Startling projections revealed that parts of Florida’s west coast could face a staggering 15ft of ocean water pouring onto land due to Hurricane Idalia’s wrath.
Tampa Bay Braces for 7ft Storm Surge
As the storm approached, the Tampa Bay area prepared for the onslaught of a menacing 7ft storm surge, a chilling preview of the destruction to come.
Florida’s Big Bend Catastrophe
Idalia made its devastating landfall in Florida’s Big Bend area, ushering in a cataclysmic storm surge that left its mark of destruction.
Millions Under Threat
A staggering number of residents, a significant portion of Florida’s 21 million, alongside those in Georgia and South Carolina, were trapped under the shadow of hurricane, tropical storm, and storm surge warnings.
Understanding the Menace of Storm Surges
The NHC emphasized that storm surges bring the deadliest danger to life and property amidst the hurricane’s destruction.
The Power of a Storm Surge
The sheer weight of water, roughly 1,700lbs per cubic yard, transforms into a lethal force during a surge, capable of toppling adults and wreaking havoc on structures, vehicles, and boats.
The Deadly Dance of Fast-Moving Waters
Even six inches of fast-moving water can prove fatal, sweeping lives away and leaving chaos in its wake, especially when coinciding with high tide.
Brian Tang’s Warning
Brian Tang, an associate professor of atmospheric science, echoed the urgent advice: “Hide from the wind and run from the water,” as he urged people to prioritize safety.
The Aftermath of a Powerful Surge
The wrath of a powerful storm surge is far-reaching, leaving behind a trail of long-term damage, including eroded beaches, saltwater-contaminated land, and devastation to wildlife and agriculture.
Hurricane Katrina’s Grim Legacy
Reflecting on history, the catastrophic storm surges unleashed by Hurricane Katrina in 2005 claimed countless lives and left a destruction trail, proving these surges’ deadly potential.
Fueling the Fury
The Gulf of Mexico’s unusually high temperatures provided the fuel for Hurricane Idalia’s unrelenting fury, amplifying the devastation it unleashed.
Unleashing Chaos on Florida’s Coast
Thousands faced power outages, streets turned into waterways, and structures crumbled as Hurricane Idalia’s unforgiving winds wreaked havoc.
Hospitals Forced to Act
In Tarpon Springs, a potential 7ft storm surge triggered the evacuation of 60 patients from a hospital due to the urgency of the situation.
The Shape of the Coast Matters
Idalia’s path in Florida’s Big Bend region exploited the coastline’s inward curve, fueling the storm surge’s ferocity and making it even more treacherous.
Battling the Elements
South Carolina faced the prospect of Charleston and the Low Country area being hit by Idalia’s path, a concern amplified by high tides.
Supermoon’s Threatening Omen
A rare blue supermoon cast an eerie omen, raising tides just as Hurricane Idalia launched its assault, potentially adding to the destruction.
Counting the Cost
Hurricane Idalia followed in the wake of Hurricane Ian, which inflicted lasting damage on Florida and led to nearly 150 deaths.
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The post Hurricane Idalia Came With a DEVASTATING Storm Surge – Here’s Everything You Need to Know first appeared on Career Step Up.
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Source: TheGuardian
