Tropical Storm Idalia weakened after making landfall in Florida with devastating winds of 200 km/h. It unleashed destructive flooding, power outages, and property damage across the Gulf Coast before moving into Georgia. While there have been no confirmed storm-related deaths, reports of fatal traffic accidents in Florida may be linked to the storm. Idalia hit the lightly populated Big Bend region, which allowed search and recovery efforts to begin promptly.

I spoke with Govs. DeSantis, Kemp, McMaster, and Cooper to reiterate my Administration's support for response and recovery in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina as Idalia makes landfall.

We'll keep working with personnel on the ground as the storm progresses. pic.twitter.com/pTbmU406q3

— President Biden (@POTUS) August 30, 2023

However, the remoteness of the area may slow down rescue and clean-up operations. Forecasters predict that Idalia will continue to impact the Carolinas before moving into the Atlantic. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis warned potential looters that homeowners are armed and prepared to defend their families and properties. The storm caused significant flooding, with streets in Tampa turning into rivers and roads submerged in the Sarasota area.

Despite the destruction, airports in the region are planning to resume commercial operations. In Georgia, Idalia's fierce winds uprooted trees and caused property damage, but there have been no reports of injuries. Bermuda is also on alert.