Two Atlantic hurricanes, Hurricane Idalia and Hurricane Franklin, have caused significant storm surges in Florida and the Southeastern U.S. Tropical storm and hurricane watches are in effect from Florida's Gulf Coast to the waters off Virginia. Hurricane Idalia has made its way into Georgia while Hurricane Franklin remains offshore and passes Bermuda.
The National Weather Service has issued tropical storm warnings and high surf advisories from North Carolina to Melbourne, Florida, south of Daytona Beach. There is also a tropical storm warning off the coast of Virginia. Hurricane warnings are in effect along Georgia's coast and on the Florida Gulf Coast, from the Panhandle through the state's Big Bend Region. Storm surge warnings and tropical storm warnings are in place throughout northern and central Florida.
Residents in Georgia and northern Florida have been advised to take precautions due to flash flooding caused by Hurricane Idalia. The hurricane made landfall south of Tallahassee as a major hurricane with "life-threatening" storm surge and "destructive" winds of over 125 mph. Although wind damage is expected to be limited as Idalia weakens, hurricane conditions pose a threat to life and property up through North Carolina.
Hurricane Franklin, on the other hand, is projected to slowly weaken as it travels northeast over a remote stretch of the Atlantic. The National Hurricane Center warns of "life-threatening surf and rip currents" along the East Coast, which are expected to persist throughout the week.
Unfortunately, at least two people have been killed in separate driving incidents in Florida due to the dangerous conditions caused by Hurricane Idalia. Nearly 375,000 homes and businesses in Florida and Georgia were without power as the hurricane swept through the region. Idalia has also forced the closure of schools, parks, museums, airports, and a hospital in Florida, and officials in more than two dozen counties have issued voluntary and mandatory evacuation orders.
In conclusion, the Atlantic hurricanes, Hurricane Idalia and Hurricane Franklin, have caused significant damage and disruptions in Florida and the Southeastern U.S. Flash flooding, storm surge, and strong winds have posed threats to the affected areas, leading to casualties and power outages. Residents have been advised to take precautions and officials have implemented evacuation measures to ensure public safety.