Irma Lashes Florida

After devastating the Caribbean, Hurricane Irma marched toward Florida, changing categories from 5, down to 3, and back up to a 4, according to ABC news. The initial models predicted that Irma would make landfall in Miami, one of the more low-lying and vulnerable cities in the tropics. Massive evacuations had been underway all week in southeastern Florida, with many residents seeking refuge on the west coast. There were multiple reports of boaters securing their craft in mangroves for added protection. 

But Irma changed directions. After making landfall in the Florida Keys on Sunday, the hurricane moved on to Naples and Fort Myers, with the eye passing over Tampa. Today, Irma is expected to pass over Cedar Key and Tallahassee. 

Droves of Floridians fleeing west suddenly had to return to the east coast. Even though Irma continues to lose strength as it moves toward Georgia, a 15-foot storm surge is expected to inundate southwest Florida, which is a haven for boating. Stay tuned for reports about damage to sailing fleets in the region on ‘Lectronic and our Facebook page.

Like all natural disasters, Irma has brought out the very best, and the not-so best in people: 

In the Caribbean, Sunsail charters reported that they sustained "extensive damage" at their locations in St. Martin and the British Virgin Islands. "But our guests are safe and we continue to reach out to all of our team members," the company said on their Facebook page. "Our locations in Antigua and Bahamas have reported all team members safe and minimal impact to our fleet." 

Hurricane Jose — currently a Category 2 hurricane — threatened to follow Irma into the very islands already devastated. But that storm only ‘brushed’ a few Caribbean locales, though its movement has been called erratic, and still may pose a threat to the Leeward islands and southeast coast of the United States.  

For those of you interested in donating to hurricane relief efforts, one of our readers shared this link for your consideration.