Tropical Storm Idalia expected to become Category 2 hurricane, here’s how it could impact Georgia

Tropical Storm Idalia is expected to become a Category 2 hurricane and to move toward the southeastern U.S. early this week.

The current track of the storm has it aiming toward the west coast of Florida and the Panhandle with severe weather starting on Tuesday.

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“The track and strength of Idalia will determine the exact impacts north Georgia will see. Heavy rain can be expected for metro Atlanta Wednesday along with some gusty winds. Our impacts will be changing as we get further updates,” Severe Weather Team 2 Meteorologist Ashley Kramlich said.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency for 33 counties and Florida residents are urged to prepare in advance of Idalia’s arrival.

In the next few days as Idalia is expected to move north through the Gulf of Mexico, forecasters say it could strengthen into a hurricane.

If sustained winds reach more than 75 mph and Idalia makes landfall in the U.S. at that strength, it would be the first Atlantic hurricane to hit the U.S. this year.

Severe Weather Team 2 Meteorologists will be tracking Idalia and you’ll get the latest updates on Channel 2 Action News as the storm approaches.

You can also get alerts through the free WSB Weather App, found in the Apple app store and the Google Play store.

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