Tropical Storm Idalia – 8/30/23 – Update #10

University of Florida officials are actively monitoring Hurricane Idalia. Here is what we know today:

Hurricane Idalia made landfall as a Category 3 storm in Florida at 7:45 a.m. near Keaton Beach in Taylor County. The storm weakened to Category 1, with maximum sustained winds up to 90 mph.

As of the 11 a.m. advisory, the National Hurricane Center had Hurricane Idalia moving into southern Georgia with high water levels continuing along Florida’s Gulf Coast. The storm is about 15 miles southeast of Valdosta, Georgia, and 165 miles southwest of Savannah, Georgia.

A tropical storm warning is in effect for Alachua County, which includes Gainesville. A hurricane warning issued earlier has been canceled.

Forecasters at the National Weather Service in Jacksonville said the Gainesville area is experiencing below tropical storm-force winds, ranging between 25 and 35 mph with gusts up to 60 mph.

A Flood Watch remains in effect for Alachua County. The flooding rain threat has remained nearly steady from the previous assessment, according to the National Weather Service. On Tuesday, Alachua County issued a mandatory evacuation order for those who live in mobile or manufactured homes, substandard housing and areas prone to flooding.

UF’s campus closed on Tuesday, Aug. 29 at noon and will remain closed today. Classes are also canceled during that time. This extended to all academic and student-related activities, including online classes and exams. UF will return to normal operating status on Thursday, Aug. 31. Classes and all academic and student-related activities, including online classes, will resume as well.

Essential employees should check with their supervisors regarding scheduling. UF Health and UF/IFAS personnel, and others at locations throughout the state should continue to follow their local government’s guidance and check with their supervisors for information regarding reopening of their work locations.

The Southwest Recreation Center shut down its shelter service today for UF students, faculty and staff, and their families. Continue to take safety precautions against any storm-related hazards.

Regularly check https://www.ufl.edu/ for updates. Any operational changes will be made through official UF channels, including the UF Alert Emergency Notification System.

For additional information, please visit National Hurricane Center.