Idalia Rapidly Strengthened; Dangers to Watch Out For with Safety Tips

A Staff Report

According to Laura Silver, Meteorologist/Planner with the NC Department of Public Safety Division of Emergency Management, Idalia rapidly strengthened overnight and will likely make landfall as a category 4 hurricane this morning in the Florida Big Bend region. Heavy rain and areas of flooding remain our greatest concern late this evening and through the day Friday. Tropical Storm Warnings have been issued for the entire NC coast, including the Pamlico and Albemarle Sounds with Tropical Storm Watches in effect farther inland across the southeast.

Key Takeaways:

• Idalia will bring heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and coastal/storm surge impacts tonight – Thursday.

• Tropical Storm Warnings have been issued for the entire coast and Storm Surge Watches are in effect for portions of the coast. 

 Rainfall

• Rain continues to be the primary threat, and a Flood Watch remains in effect for areas along and southeast of the I-85 corridor 2 PM this afternoon through Thursday evening, where scattered to numerous areas of flash flooding will be possible, some of which could be significant. Scattered showers and storms will increase in coverage throughout the day, but the heaviest rain will move into southeastern NC this evening. Since yesterday, expected rainfall totals along the I-85 corridor have decreased as there will likely be a very sharp gradient across portions of or just southeast of the Triangle and Charlotte Metro.
• Southern portions of the I-95 corridor northeastward into central portions of the coast are expected to see the heaviest rainfall with amounts of 5-8″, with isolated totals up to 10″ possible.
• Rainfall is expected to taper off southwest to northeast during the afternoon hours Thursday, but some showers could linger near the coast through Thursday night.
• While the threat of riverine flooding will not be as great as flash flooding, several rivers will likely rise above Minor Flood Stage. Isolated moderate river flooding is possible and the N.E. Cape Fear River near Burgaw is now forecast to rise above Moderate Flood Stage on Saturday.

Wind Gusts

• Gusty winds will increase tonight, peaking early Thursday morning through Thursday evening Idalia makes its closest approach to NC. As Idalia moves away from the coast, gusty northeasterly winds will continue along northern portions of the coast due to a pressure gradient with high pressure to the north and Idalia to the southeast.
• The strongest gusts 40-60 mph are expected along the immediate coast.
• Farther inland, Gusts of 25-40 mph will be possible across the Piedmont and Coastal Plain.
• Gusty winds combined with saturated soils could result in downed trees and power outages.

Storm Surge

• A Storm Surge Watch has been issued for Beaufort Inlet to Ocracoke Inlet North Carolina, as well as the Neuse and Pamlico Rivers where 2-4′ of inundation will be possible. While areas south of Beaufort Inlet and north of Ocracoke Inlet to Duck are not under a Storm Surge Watch, these areas could see 1-3′ of inundation if the peak surge occurs at the time of high tide.
• Gusty northeasterly winds will continue the threat of elevated water levels (2-4′ above ground) along the sounds, as well as ocean overwash and beach erosion along the Outer Banks on Friday and possibly into the weekend.

 

Severe Storms

• A few tornadoes will be possible this evening through early Thursday morning along and near the coast as the SPC has placed southeastern NC under a Slight Risk (level 2 of 5) for scattered severe storms. Tornadoes associated with tropical systems are typically brief but offer very little lead time.
• Make sure to have several ways to receive emergency alerts as severe weather at night can be particularly dangerous.

 

Marine Conditions

• Rough seas and strong winds could also result in moderate beach erosion and dangerous conditions for mariners.

The next NCEM Hazardous Weather Update will be sent by 6:30 PM Wednesday evening. View the graphic updates by clicking here. Hurricane Idalia PowerPoint Presentation

Joey Coleman, the Bladen County Emergency Services Director, encourages Bladen County county residents to subscribe to the Code Red Emergency Alert System for up-to-date information regarding the storm.

Renee Babson with the Bladen County Emergency Services office confirmed the County operations are currently the same, and no shelters have been opened. Coleman and the County’s staff are preparing for the storm and will meet this afternoon to assess the situation further. 

Bladen County Schools released an update yesterday stating, “Due to the possible risk of localized flooding and gusty winds as a result of Hurricane Idalia, and out of an abundance of caution, Bladen County Schools will transition to an asynchronous remote learning day for Thursday, August 31, 2023. Teachers will send assignments home with students on Wednesday. In addition, all after school activities for Wednesday, August 30 will be cancelled. At this time, we plan to operate on a normal schedule on Friday, September 1, 2023.”  

With rainfall being the most significant risk of the storm to Bladen County, NC at the moment, Coleman asked for information regarding the dangers of flooding to be published.

According to the research by the BladenOnline team, the following are some risks flooding may bring.

Contaminated Waters: Flood waters are notorious for their capacity to carry harmful contaminants. They can sweep up various pollutants from various sources, including sewage systems, industrial areas, and agricultural fields. These contaminants can include bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and even hazardous materials. Contact with contaminated flood waters can lead to severe infections, skin irritation, gastrointestinal issues, and other health problems.

Fast Currents and Debris: The force of flood waters is often underestimated. Even relatively shallow water can have strong currents capable of knocking down a person. Debris, like fallen trees, branches, and other objects, can become projectiles in swiftly moving water, posing a grave danger to anyone in their path.

Hidden Hazards: Flood waters can mask a range of dangers beneath their surface. Uneven terrain, open maintenance holes, submerged sharp objects, and unstable ground are all concealed hazards that can lead to injuries or worse for those who venture into the waters.

Electrical Risks: Flood waters can infiltrate electrical systems, leading to potential electrocution hazards. Submerged power lines, electrical outlets, and even utility poles pose a significant threat to anyone in or around the flood waters.

Waterborne Diseases: Flood waters can become breeding grounds for disease-carrying insects, like mosquitoes, that thrive in stagnant water. Mosquito-borne diseases can spread rapidly in post-flood environments.

Safety Measures:

1. Avoid Walking or Driving Through Flood Waters: It’s crucial to never attempt to walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. Even shallow waters can carry a powerful current that can sweep you away from your feet or your vehicle.
2. Heed Evacuation Orders: If authorities issue evacuation orders, it’s vital to comply promptly. Your safety and that of your family should be your top priority.
3. Stay Informed: Monitor weather forecasts and flood warnings from reliable sources. Being aware of potential flooding in your area can give you time to prepare or evacuate if necessary. Subscribe to the Code Red Emergency Alert System for up-to-date information regarding the storm.
4. Keep Children and Pets Away: Children and pets are particularly vulnerable to the hazards of flood waters. Keep them away from flooded areas to ensure their safety.
5. Avoid Contact: If you must be near flood waters, wear protective clothing and footwear to minimize direct contact. After any exposure, wash thoroughly with clean water and soap.
6. Seek Higher Ground: If you’re in a flood-prone area, move to higher ground before flood waters rise.

In the face of flooding, vigilance and caution are paramount. Understanding the multifaceted dangers posed by flood waters and adopting appropriate safety measures can significantly reduce the risks associated with these natural disasters. Always prioritize your safety and that of your loved ones in times of flooding.

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