Florida ports prepare for Tropical Storm Idalia's impact

Tropical Storm Idalia is moving steadily towards Florida's west coast and is projected to make landfall tomorrow, according to the US National Hurricane Center (NHC).

MAP: Tropical Storm Idalia’s projected path. National Hurricane Center

The US Coast Guard has set a “port condition X-ray” in the Port of Tampa, which is in the direct path of Idalia.

Ports are allowed to continue operations during a port condition X-Ray. But if weather conditions deteriorate this category can be escalated to “Yankee”, which would mean an immediate closure and that all vessels over 500 gross tonnes have to depart the port.

Meanwhile, the US Coast Guard has set a "port condition Whiskey" in Port Canaveral on the east coast of Florida, meaning gale-force wind gusts are forecast within 72 hours. It has warned that port conditions could change drastically as the storm approaches.

Bunker deliveries are likely to be suspended in these ports while the weather is rough.

By Nithin Chandran

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