From the National Weather Service:
Good morning,
The latest briefing for Tropical Storm Idalia for the Florida Keys of Monroe County. This briefing will also post shortly to https://www.weather.gov/media/key/DSS/dssbrief_land.pdf
- A Tropical Storm Warning remains in effect for the Dry Tortugas. A Tropical Storm Watch remains in effect for the Lower Florida Keys, from the west end of the 7 Mile Bridge through Key West.
- A Tropical Storm Warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected somewhere within the warning area.
- A Tropical Storm Watch means that tropical storm conditions are possible within the watch area.
- Tropical Storm Idalia now contains maximum sustained winds near 65 mph and is moving north, with a continued northward motion bringing the center of Idalia over the extreme southeastern Gulf of Mexico by early Tuesday. Idalia is forecast to increase in forward speed and turn north-northeastward over the eastern Gulf of Mexico on Tuesday.
- While the center of Idalia is still expected to pass well to the west of the Florida Keys at this time, there remains a potential for tropical storm conditions over the Lower Florida Keys and the waters west through Dry Tortugas. Additional potential impacts may include:
- A combination of the upcoming spring tide with the approaching full moon and strong southerly winds from Idalia’s circulation may produce coastal flooding with water levels 1 to 2 feet above average high tides (ground level at the immediate coast over the Middle and Lower Florida Keys. Significant street flooding, inland for a few blocks is possible especially along oceanside within lower elevation neighborhoods. Some streets may become temporarily impassable.
- Occasional thundery squalls with tropical storm force wind gusts and poor visibility in heavy downpours, with the highest threat for squalls over the Lower Keys and waters to the west from early morning Tuesday through Wednesday. A tornado or two cannot be ruled out, especially during Tuesday afternoon.
- Florida Keys residents and visitors should monitor future forecasts frequently throughout the day and take protective action before nightfall to secure loose outdoor objects from being blown about, especially in the Lower Florida Keys.
The next briefing is scheduled around noon today.