Tropical Storm Ian threatens Caribbean and Florida with high winds and rain: NPR
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Officials in the Caribbean and Florida are warning residents to prepare for the arrival of Tropical Storm Ian, a more intense storm expected to develop into a hurricane over the weekend.
The weather system is currently turbulent to the southeast of Jamaica was announced a tropical storm Friday night and is expected to make landfall in densely populated areas with heavy rain and high winds starting Sunday.
Jamaica is being monitored for tropical storms and the Cayman Islands, which are just above Ian’s expected path, are being monitored, according to the report. National Hurricane Center.
Some The storm shelter has been opened on the Cayman Islands, and Premier Wayne Panton told residents to expect heavy rain, flooding and the possibility of power outages.
“I ask you to remain calm. Preparation and caution are the keys to staying safe,” Panton said in a statement. “Conclude your preparations as quickly as possible and plan to be in safe haven on Sunday afternoon.”
High tides can also cause coastal water levels on the Cayman Islands to rise 1 to 3 feet above normal tidal heights.
The tropical storm is then expected to move west of Cuba on Monday before continuing north through the Florida Keys and peninsula. NASA announced on Saturday delay in its launch plan of the Artemis 1 mission to the moon, was set for Tuesday, as the storm was approaching.
The National Weather Service says there is “growing confidence” that Ian will cause life-threatening conditionsincluding high tides, storms and floods.
Up to 12 inches of rain could fall in some areas, with possible flash floods and landslides in Jamaica and Cuba.
Governor Ron DeSantis declare a state of emergency for 24 counties in Florida – put the Florida National Guard on standby – and also asked the federal government to declare a state of emergency before landing.
“This storm has the potential to strengthen into a major hurricane and we encourage all Floridians to prepare,” DeSantis said in a statement. “We are working with all of our state and local government partners to monitor the potential impacts of this storm.”