Forecast Update

As of 11:00AM EDT, the National Hurricane Center has Hurricane Idalia located approximately 275 miles SSW of Tampa, Florida. Hurricane Idalia strengthened to a Category 1 Hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 85 mph, moving north at 14 mph. Coastal Collier County remains under a Tropical Storm Warning and a Storm Surge Watch. 

A Storm Surge Watch means there is a possibility of life-threatening inundation, from rising water moving inland from the coastline, in the indicated locations during the next 48 hours. For a depiction of areas at risk, please see the National Weather Service Storm Surge Watch/Warning Graphic, available at hurricanes.gov.

A Tropical Storm Warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected somewhere within the warning area.

Current projections have Hurricane Idalia strengthening rapidly, likely to become a major hurricane over the eastern Gulf of Mexico within 17 hours. The latest maps from the NOAA National Hurricane Center are included below for reference. 

Although the City of Naples is outside the projected path, the City encourages all residents and visitors to review their preparedness plans and stay informed on local updates. The path of the storm and its impacts are still uncertain. Stay informed!

STORM SURGE AND PROJECTED HIGH TIDES

Higher than normal tides are expected this week which will affect storm surge predictions. High tide for Wednesday, August 30 at 1:36AM is predicted to be at 2.66-feet and at 12:53PM is predicted to be 3.71-feet. To view high tides, go to NOAA Tide Predictions.

Those living in low-lying areas that typically experience flooding during high tides should take necessary precautions. Weather will begin to deteriorate in the evening hours tonight. With rain, storm surge, and an overnight high tide, the City strongly urges residents in low-lying areas to prepare for flooded roadways and if possible, relocate as soon as possible to higher ground.

DO NOT WALK INTO FLOOD WATER

Did you know that it only takes 6-inches of water to knock you off your feet?

Flood water can contain chemicals, sewage, as well as unseen underwater debris which can be sharp and cause injury. Often times the flood waters depth can change unexpectedly due to storm drains, washed-out roads, and other unseen variables.

DO NOT DRIVE INTO FLOOD WATER

Water over the roadway can cause many hazards to motorists. Just a few inches of water can cause your vehicle to hydroplane cause the driver to lose control. In as little as 6 inches of water, water can start entering into the vehicle cabin area. Water that is 12 inches deep, can float many cars, especially if the water is moving. 

Driving through water can damage your car. Water in the engine will cause your vehicle to hydro lock or stall due to water in the air intake, which freezes the pistons. In many cases this damage is irreversible. Transmission damage causing the gears to slip can also occur. Driving through water can also cause brake failure or damage as the rotors can become warped.

DO NOT DRIVE AROUND OR MOVE BARRICADES

Barriers are in place to keep you safe. Don’t put your life in danger by driving around barricades. Even if it looks clear, water over roads can deteriorate the roadway.

The City of Naples Public Parking Garages located off of 8th Street South are not open for storage of personal vehicles. Storing personal vehicles for storm preparation is PROHIBITED in the City's parking garages. For storm preparations, the City's parking garages are being reserved for City Emergency Personnel and Emergency Vehicles only.

Per City Ordinance Section 36-66, any vehicle left beyond 48-hours is subject to towing. Vehicles must also be parked in a designated parking space.

Currently, there are no evacuation orders, and the Bureau of Emergency Services has not opened any storm shelters or special needs shelters in Collier County. The City of Naples Administrative Offices and facilities will be open on Tuesday and Wednesday. If weather conditions deteriorate, offices and facilities will close early.

Beach Accesses - ALERT

The public should use caution when accessing the beach. We still have damage at some public accesses, and the tides and storm surge could flood the roadways and accesses, increasing safety risks. Please use precaution when around facilities close to the water as the water levels continue to rise.   

Parks & Recreation

• Staff continue to secure items on City property and preparing response equipment. 
• Staff have plans in place to remove any debris in the roadways and our contractors are on alert in case assistance is needed to ensure clearing is completed quickly. 
• Staff are moving vehicles and equipment into safe, high locations. 
• The City Dock is securing boats, so they do not float away and cause damage to other properties. 
• River Park Community Center is clean and ready in the event it is needed for a community and staff relief location. 
• Generators have been tested and prepared to deploy where needed. 

Solid Waste

• Solid Waste staff are completing regularly scheduled collections today.
• At this time, the City does not anticipate impacts to its collection schedule for the remainder of the week. However, residents will be notified if storm conditions require the City to adjust its collection schedule.  
• Residents and businesses are advised to secure their recycle carts and any other loose containers. Please do not place materials of any kind at the curb until after the storm has passed.

Water/Sewer

• Portable Generators are being deployed to various sites, and fuel levels are being topped off at all water and wastewater facilities.
• Staff are continuing to closely monitor all critical facilities, including treatment plants, sewer lift stations, water storage tanks, etc.
• Residents and businesses are advised that power outages are anticipated, which may temporarily impact utility operations; water pressures may be reduced and sewer lift stations may be operating under limiting conditions. During this time, residents and businesses should take the necessary water conservation measures, including limiting toilet flushing, and abstaining from running dishwashers, clothes washers, pressure washing/car washing, and any other outdoor use of water that is not necessary.

Stormwater/Streets

• Stormwater crews have lowered stormwater lake levels in anticipation of heavy rainfall. 
• Street sweeping continues to reduce the amount of material that could clog stormwater inlets.
• Staff will be available post storm to begin any necessary recovery actions.
• Remind residents to avoid flooded streets.