TAMPA, Fla. – August 28, 2023 – As Idalia strengthens on its approach to our Gulf Coast, the American Red Cross urges everyone in its potential path to monitor local weather and be prepared for this storm. Idalia is now forecast to become a major hurricane by the time it makes landfall early Wednesday, bringing with it strong winds, heavy rain and possible flooding. A state of emergency has been declared in more than 30 counties along our Gulf Coast.
The Red Cross is monitoring the situation closely and coordinating with government officials and community partners. Disaster teams and supplies have been pre-positioned to support communities who may be impacted by the storm. Additional volunteers and emergency supplies are on standby in case they are needed. Even as we prepare for Idalia, the Red Cross remains on the ground helping communities recover from the deadliest wildfires of the last century in Hawaii, among other disasters. Eleven Central Florida volunteers are currently serving on assignments outside the region.
FOR HOUSEHOLDS IN THE STORM’S PATH Monitor local news for the updates and important information, such as evacuation orders. It’s critical to listen to the advice of local authorities and evacuate if asked to do so. We encourage safety and being out of harm’s way above all.
It’s also important to know the difference between a watch and a warning. A watch means conditions are likely and to stay alert -- a warning means act now.
In advance of landfall, evacuation shelters may open if called for by County Emergency Management officials. Anyone who needs a safe place to go can find information about open shelters at redcross.org/shelter, the free Red Cross Emergency app or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767). Find a list of items to bring to a shelter at redcross.org/shelter.
ACTION STEPS Take these steps now to get your household ready.
HOW TO HELP The need to help during disasters has never been greater. Join us to provide relief and hope when it matters most.
The climate crisis, according to scientists, is making hurricanes worse in the United States by increasing their intensity. As extreme weather increases, more people need help from the Red Cross. Find out more about the Red Cross and its work on the climate crisis at redcross.org/climate.
The American Red Cross of Central Florida and the U.S. Virgin Islands serves 19 Florida counties through five chapters: Florida’s Space Coast (Daytona Beach), Greater Orlando, Mid-Florida (Winter Haven), Southwest Florida (Sarasota) and Tampa Bay; and the Virgin Islands territories of St. Thomas, St. Croix, St. John and Water Island. For more information, visit redcross.org. Also find us on Facebook and Twitter.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.
# # #