Hurricane Ian Unleashes Heavy Rains, Power Interruptions in Florida Despite Losing Intensity

Hurricane Ian unleashed heavy rains, causing power interruptions in Florida despite Ian's weakening.

Officials urged residents to be careful as they mobilized linemen to restore the power and assist affected communities.

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) announced that Hurricane Ian maximum winds decreased to 155 mph and still a higher gust. The NHC said that Ian is expected to weaken for the next day.

However, it still maintains hurricane-strength while moving over Florida East.

AccuWeather reported that Hurricane Ian was downgraded to a Category 2 storm after losing wind intensity.

Hurricane Ian was seen about 95 miles south-southwest in Orlando, Florida, moving near eight mph (13 km/h) to the north-northeast.

Furthermore, the Hurricane Center said that Hurricane Ian track would move to central Florida on Thursday morning.

At the same time, the Hurricane is set to cross northeast Florida, South Carolina coasts, and Georgia.

Also Read: Hurricane Ian to Unleash Heavy Rains in Florida As It Quickly Intensifies 

Meanwhile, the advisory explained the hurricane-force winds from Hurricane Ian. According to reports:

• Hurricane winds could extend ,outward, up to 50 miles or 85 km, and strong-force winds, outward, can extend up to 175 miles or 280 km.
• NHC said that the University of Florida Monitoring program noted 54 mph (87 km/h) sustained winds with a gust said to be 91 mph (146 km/h) in the wind tower near Punta Gorda.
• Hurricane Ian estimated minimum pressure reported 960 mb or 28.35 inches.

Florida

(Photo by Sean Rayford/Getty Images)

According to AccuWeather, Hurricane Ian's resulted in Florida activating the Florida Disaster Fund to help affected communities.

The Weather website noted that Hurricane Ian unleashed heavy rains in the east coast of Florida. Based on the report of rainfall totals due to the Hurricane:

• Mesonet stations, Delray Beach, recorded 9.97 inches.
• Boca Raton recorded 9.75 inches
• India Town recorded 9.6 inches

Moreover, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis urged residents to be careful outside, avoid power lines and standing water, and place generators 20 feet outside the home.

On the other hand, AccuWeather reported that Florida suffered from power outages because of Hurricane Ian.

It noted that 2 million customers had no power. 

The Florida Governor said that 42,000 linemen are set to restore power in affected communities, while 7,000 National Guardsmen and 179 aircraft are ready to assist.

The state also prepared over 176 shelters and 50 special needs shelters for possible evacuations due to Hurricane Ian.

DeSantis encouraged residents who are interested in volunteering to help affected communities.

Hurricane preparations

As Hurricane Ian continued to impact Florida, it is expected to maintain strength, causing flooding and dangerous winds. It is essential to be prepared.

• Keep updated with the current weather events from the local weather stations or state authorities.
• Be careful with downed trees and power lines. Avoid driving areas with ongoing repairs and clearing.
• As you return to your house, check for damages and possible leaks. If the electrical equipment is damaged, it is best to consult a professional electrician.
• Check for any injuries.

Related Article: Florida Deploys National Guard; Millions Ordered to Evacuate as Hurricane Ian Draws Near

For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature World News.