MIAMI, FLA (August 28, 2023) – As Idalia strengthens on its approach to our Gulf Coast, the American Red Cross urges everyone in its potential path to monitor local weather and be prepared for this storm.

Idalia is now forecast to become a major hurricane by the time it makes landfall early Wednesday, bringing with it strong winds, heavy rain and possible flooding. A state of emergency has been declared in more than 30 counties along our Gulf Coast.

The Red Cross is monitoring the situation closely and coordinating with government officials and community partners. Disaster teams and supplies have been pre-positioned to support communities who may be impacted by the storm. Additional volunteers and emergency supplies are on standby in case they are needed.

Even as we prepare for Idalia, the Red Cross remains on the ground helping communities recover from the deadliest wildfires of the last century in Hawaii, among other disasters. Fourteen South Florida volunteers are currently serving on assignments outside the region.

FOR HOUSEHOLDS IN THE STORM’S PATH  Monitor local news for updates and important information, such as evacuation orders. It’s critical to listen to the advice of local authorities and evacuate if asked to do so. We encourage safety and being out of harm’s way above all.

It’s also important to know the difference between a watch and a warning. A watch means conditions are likely and to stay alert -- a warning means act now.

In advance of landfall, evacuation shelters may open if called for by County Emergency Management officials. Anyone who needs a safe place to go can find information about open shelters at redcross.org/shelter, the free Red Cross Emergency app or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767). Find a list of items to bring to a shelter at redcross.org/shelter. 

ACTION STEPS  Take these steps now to get your household ready.

• Make a plan. Determine your best protection from high winds and flooding. Have a plan to evacuate if asked to do so by local officials, and a plan to shelter safely. Get help at redcross.org/hurricane.
• Build an emergency kit.  Gather and organize supplies into a go-kit and a stay-at-home kit. If you already have a kit, check and refresh the supplies. Find a list of suggested supplies at redcross.org/kit.
• Be informed. Find out how local officials will contact you during a disaster and how you will get important information, such as evacuation orders. Sign up for emergency alerts in your city or county at floridadisaster.org/alertflorida.
• Download the FREE Red Cross Emergency app for instant access to full weather alerts, help preparing for emergency situations and open Red Cross shelter locations. Search “American Red Cross” in app stores or go to redcross.org/apps.

HOW TO HELP  The need to help during disasters has never been greater. Join us to provide relief and hope when it matters most. 

• Help people affected by disasters big and small, including climate-driven crises, by making a gift to American Red Cross Disaster Relief at redcross.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS. 
• Our volunteers are at the heart of our mission and represent 90% of our workforce. Visit redcross.org/volunteer to find opportunities. 

The climate crisis, according to scientists, is making hurricanes worse in the United States by increasing their intensity. As extreme weather increases, more people need help from the Red Cross. Find out more about the Red Cross and its work on the climate crisis at redcross.org/climate.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org/southflorida and visit us on Facebook and Twitter at @SFLRedCross.