On Sanibel Island, where sunny days typically reign supreme (even during the summer rainy season), a new scene has unfolded as Hurricane Idalia makes its presence known. Today, August 29th, 2023, the island anticipates the outer rain bands of the Hurricane to graze the coast of Sanibel, reminding us that even amid the beauty (and our active recovery from last September’s Hurricane Ian), nature’s shifts can be remarkable.
Sanibel Barometer has captured a snapshot of the calm before the storm in a brief video, offering a glimpse of this intriguing contrast. Filmed just before the first distant rain bands arrived around noon, the video preserves a moment of tranquility juxtaposed against the impending weather shift. Scroll further down this page and click play to view the video…
Local schools are closed for the day, due to the impending storm. Notifications continue to roll in, filling our phones with updates and advice. Meteorologists and media outlets keep a watchful eye, and though grocery stores and gas stations across Southwest Florida see an uptick in activity as folks prepare to hunker down, the island’s spirit remains unfazed. The beaches, drenched in sunlight, provide a haven of serenity. Waves lap gently, birds glide overhead, and flower blossoms sway along the dunes, still recovering from the embrace of Hurricane Ian.
You’d almost never know that Lee County is currently under a Tropical Storm warning, with the distant ripples of Hurricane Idalia’s effects touching our shores.
The City of Sanibel has offered crucial information, advising residents and visitors to prepare for Hurricane Idalia while emphasizing the island’s safety measures.
The City shares insights that Lee County officials emphasize: Although physical barriers won’t be used to “close” bridges, it’s strongly advised to stay away from them and the roads leading to them once winds reach tropical storm force (40 mph). This cautionary note reminds us of the importance of considering the potential effects of even mild storm conditions, particularly on elevated bridges.
As Hurricane Idalia continues its course, the weather on the island is expected to take a turn. Residents are encouraged to stay informed by keeping an eye on weather forecasts until the storm moves farther north. In the interest of safety, beach visits are discouraged, as the storm’s progression might bring about intermittent heavy rain and localized flooding, including the possibility of tornado activity and minor storm surges.
Here are some key details provided by The City of Sanibel:
- Hurricane Idalia currently maintains a distance of 250 miles southwest of Sanibel.
- The storm is projected to come closest to Sanibel after sunset, at an approximate distance of 125 miles.
- Wind speeds are predicted to rise gradually throughout the day, peaking later in the evening.
- A potential storm surge of 2-4 feet may affect the island tonight into Wednesday.
- A moderate 1-3 inches of rainfall is expected.
- Wind speeds could peak at 40-60 mph, with the possibility of sustained winds of around 40 mph through the evening.
As the island experiences the outskirts of Hurricane Idalia’s journey, Sanibel residents and visitors are reminded to remain cautious and informed. The island’s charm remains resilient, and its community unites in preparation for any scenario. Stay safe, stay informed, and take heed of advice from local authorities as we navigate this gentle dance with nature’s rhythms.
Scroll down and press play to see the video from Sanibel Island…
RELATED: CALL FOR ART: Attention Artists from (or inspired by) Sanibel, Captiva, Fort Myers, Fort Myers Beach, Pine Island, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, and Southwest Florida. Sanibel Art Colony is seeking artists to submit art inspired by the impact of Hurricane Ian to their digital-only exhibition, “There’s Calm In Your Eye”. NO ENTRY FEE! Submission Deadline: September 20, 2023. CLICK HERE TO ENTER NOW: sanibelartcolony.com/hurricane-ian-call-for-art
View The Video From Sanibel Island
RELATED: Join our BRAND NEW Sanibel + Captiva Island Art + Photography Group
ALSO RELATED: Connect with @sanibel_barometer on Instagram
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