Tropical Storm Ian Expected To Strengthen Into Major Hurricane And Hit Florida

BOCA RATON, FL – Boca Post (BocaPost.com) — The National Hurricane Center tells Boca Post that they expect Tropical Storm Ian to strengthen into a major hurricane and expects it to hit the west coast of Florida early next week.

According to the NHC, Ian is expected to produce heavy rainfall and instances of flash flooding and possible mudslides in areas of higher terrain, particularly over Jamaica and Cuba.

Hurricane conditions are possible in the Cayman Islands by early Monday, with tropical storm conditions possible by late Sunday. Tropical storm conditions are possible in Jamaica on Sunday.

Early next week, Ian is forecast to move near or over western Cuba as a strengthening hurricane and then approach the Florida peninsula at or near major hurricane strength, with the potential for significant impacts from storm surge, hurricane-force winds, and heavy rainfall.  While it is too soon to determine the exact magnitude and location of these impacts, residents in Cuba, the Florida Keys, and the Florida peninsula should ensure they have their hurricane plan in place and closely monitor the forecast updates through the weekend.

Governor Ron DeSantis signed executive order 22-218 which declares a state of emergency for 24 Florida counties ahead of what appears to be an inevitable landfall of what is expected to be Hurricane Ian.

“Today, I signed an Executive Order issuing a State of Emergency due to the threat of Tropical Depression 9,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “This storm has the potential to strengthen into a major hurricane and we encourage all Floridians to make their preparations. We are coordinating with all state and local government partners to track potential impacts of this storm.”

The School District of Palm Beach County has told parents and staff that they are continuing to monitor the situation and will make school closure decisions as the storm gets closer. The district says they will provide updates and alerts via the school’s ParentLink system and social media.