This morning the National Hurricane Center upgraded Hurricane Ian to a major Category 3 storm, with sustained winds of 125 mph -- a 20 mph jump from the 11 p.m. advisory.
The path of projected movement now brings Ian onshore near Tampa, moving north-northeast through western Polk County, and up through Sumter County. It's forecast to make its closest pass to Osceola, about 50 miles to the west of Kissimmee and St. Cloud and maybe 30 miles from Celebration. The storm's hurricane force winds currently extend 35 miles from the center, so it's likely the western parts of the county will see winds of 75 mph or so, and possible for central and eastern parts. Keep in mind, the track has been edging eastward ever since Saturday, so it's possible this could change.
The Tropical Storm Watch that was issued Monday morning for Osceola and other inland counties changed to a Warning at 11 p.m., so tropical-storm conditions (40-70 mph) at expected over the next 36 hours. For reference, Lake County to our west was put under a Hurricane Warning.
Rainfall: Our area can expect 7 to 10 inches of rain through Friday, and a threat of tornadoes Wednesday and Thursday.
Rainbands will begin later tonight, so preparations to protect life and property should be completed by this afternoon.
Shelters: Celebration and Harmony High Schools and Kissimmee Middle School (pet friendly) will open Tuesday at 8 a.m. The Osceola Council on Aging is a special-needs shelter for those who have registered with the Council.
Osceola County's joint task force will meet Tuesday at 11 a.m. to update the public, and much of what was just discussed will be brought up, and possibly updated.
