Tropical Storm Ian strengthened into a hurricane on Monday, lashing the south coast of Cuba by the evening. DoSantis has declared a state of emergency throughout Florida, the BBC reports.
The US National Hurricane Center expects Ian to strengthen further on Tuesday and into Wednesday, stating it had the potential to become a category 4 storm bringing 140mph winds.
It could be the largest storm to hit the Tampa and St Petersburg regions of Florida for 100 years. The White House has made its own emergency declaration to help coordinate relief. Florida’s theme parks have also been placed on alert, and stand ready to act if the situation deteriorates.
It’s the second major storm to sweep through the Caribbean in a week after Hurricane Fiona brought high winds and heavy rains before causing disruption on the US and Canadian east coast.
The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for the US, warning: "Hurricane Ian is expected to reach the Florida coast on Wednesday 28 September.
"The US National Hurricane Centre has issued a hurricane warning for the Fort Myers and Tampa Bay areas of western Florida, although the entire state may be affected to differing degrees.
"Strong winds and heavy rainfall are expected and there is a high risk of flooding from rain and coastal storm surges."
Anyone in the region is advised to monitor local and international weather updates from the US national Hurricane Center and follow the advice of local authorities and/or their tour operator, including complying with any evacuation orders.
