Hurricane Irma continues path of destruction in Florida
Hurricane Irma is continuing on its path of destruction with a 210km/h wind gust reported in Naples, Florida.
The centre of the dangerous Category 3 storm made landfall in Marco Island, Florida around 3:35p.m local time.
It was moving north-northwest at 15km/h, the National Hurricane Center said in a statement.
The powerful storm has already claimed the lives of at least 22 people in the Caribbean and three people in Florida.
That footage from Naples a few minutes ago? That was 131 mph gusts. https://t.co/5F7cH3lAxK
— Meg Wagner (@megwagner) September 10, 2017
Nearly two million homes are without power across Florida, with Irma still packing winds around 200km/hr. Tornadoes have also been reported in some areas.
The National Guard has been activated to help on the ground.
And now, the storm surge begins in Naples. https://t.co/fDfY2mavuR
— Meg Wagner (@megwagner) September 10, 2017
The latest update on the Australian Smartraveller website urged people in the area to monitor local media reports and follow the instructions of authorities.
“Hurricane Irma is projected to make landfall as a powerful and potentially catastrophic Category 4 storm in south Florida on Sunday 10 September (local time),” the advice reads.
“Expect hurricane-like conditions, including high winds, heavy rain and storm surges, leading up to this time.
“Authorities are warning that the storm could also impact other parts of the south-eastern United States and the eastern seaboard.
“States of Emergency have been declared in Florida, parts of Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Alabama and Virginia to enable the preparation and activation of emergency services, should this become necessary.
“Monitor local media reports and follow the instructions of local authorities.”
#Irma expected to hit Florida #USA on 10/9 as cat 4 storm. Monitor news, follow instructions of local authorities https://t.co/DTzUiUYr5f
— Smartraveller (@Smartraveller) September 10, 2017
