With Hurricane Idalia continuing to intensify and move north in the Gulf, Treasure Island residents and visitors should have all their storm preparations finalized. If you haven’t evacuated the island yet, now is the time to do so. When wind speeds exceed 50 mph and conditions deteriorate, emergency personnel may not be able to respond immediately to calls for emergencies.

Key points:

• Wind and rain are expected later this evening as Idalia passes by and is forecasted to last through Wednesday morning.
• With our area on the “dirty side” of the storm, a 4-7 feet storm surge is expected along the coast. High tide will also happen overnight.
• Power outages/isolated tornadoes are possible.
• If your power goes out, DO NOT call 911. Contact Duke Energy by texting OUT to 57801 or call 228.8485.
• Everyone is advised to stay off the roads after 7 p.m. until storm conditions subside. High winds and rain are expected to make travel unsafe tonight.
• Do not leave electric vehicles near the water. Saltwater can cause EV batteries to combust causing a fire.
• Before evacuating, lock all doors and turn off your utilities before you leave.
• Don’t drive in flooded areas. Wake from vehicles traveling on flooded roads causes more property damage than the rising water alone.
• Don’t play in floodwaters as they contain potential health hazards and hidden dangers including bacteria, dangerous wildlife and submerged hazards that could entangle a person or pet, leading to drowning.

More updates, safety information, etc. at MyTreasureIsland.com/Idalia.