5 PM Update…Hurricane Watch lifted for Englewood to Longboat Key
As Idalia’s center moved northward within the Gulf region, the National Hurricane Center opted to discontinue the Hurricane Watch that had been in place from Englewood to the middle of Longboat Key. This decision was announced as part of the NHC’s 5 p.m. update. However, the Hurricane Watch for the Panhandle area was maintained.
Furthermore, a Hurricane Watch persisted for the stretch extending from the middle of Longboat Key northwards to Indian Pass, encompassing Tampa Bay. This precautionary measure was upheld due to the Category 2 storm’s trajectory aimed at the Big Bend region of Florida.
According to the NHC, visible satellite imagery indicated the initial formation of an eye within the storm.
The Hurricane Watch for the Panhandle remained in effect.
Additionally, the Hurricane Watch remained active for the area spanning from the middle of Longboat Key to Indian Pass, including Tampa Bay. This was due to the Category 2 storm’s targeting of Florida’s Big Bend region.
The NHC noted the emergence of the early stages of an eye in visible satellite imagery.