Hurricane Irma had weakened into a Category 3 storm but as it hits Florida, the deadly storm has once again intensified into a Category 4 hurricane. The state of Florida is currently witnessing massive winds with devastating rain and torrential waves to follow.
At least 7 million people have been asked to leave in what is being said as the largest evacuation in the history of the United States. Wind speed is about 125 mph which may gust up to 155 mph. Along with this, a storm surge of 15 ft. is also expected in Florida.
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The Governor has given strict instructions asking people to leave now as there is not much time left now. Hurricane shelters are full as time runs out for residents to leave and find safer places to live.
Before this, Hurricane Irma has already wreaked havoc in Cuba leading to devastation in the form of ripped roofs and flooding along with power outage for several thousand. Until now, Irma has already killed at least 27 and with the intensity of the storm, the toll is likely to increase further.
Only hours before the approach of hurricane, twisters have been seen in Florida by residents as what they believe are tornadoes. Tornado warnings are also in place for Miami and other parts of Florida.
Hurricane Irma is currently 115km southeast of Key West and is packing a wind speed of 130 mph. The storm is moving in a west-northwest direction towards Florida Keys which is likely to observe life threatening weather conditions.
As Irma approaches, hurricane winds have already begun to lash Florida and residents have begun to witness power outage in Miami and other parts.
Tampa bay may be under the bull’s eye of Hurricane Irma as it may give a head on blow to the region. Tampa has not been directly hit by a hurricane in over a century.
Image Credit: NOAA