Tropical Storm Idalia

[UPDATED AUG 30th 8:45AM ET]

Hurricane Idalia Volusia County Impacts (Information from Volusia County Emergency Management)

Hurricane Idalia has intensified into a major hurricane, moving northeast at 18 mph. East Central Florida will experience the right side of the hurricane's effects throughout Wednesday as the hurricane turns and continues its path through southeast Georgia. The strongest winds, with gusts up to 45 and 50 mph, could impact our region through 5 p.m. Rainfall predictions for the area range from one to three inches, with some areas potentially receiving up to four or five inches. In addition, a tornado watch is in effect for Volusia County until 3 p.m. Wednesday. Residents may learn about tornado safety tips by clicking here.

We advise our visitors to check upcoming weather for the New Smyrna Beach Area before traveling and to abide by local authorities should evacuations or shelter-in-place orders be advised. Skip to latest Volusia County Press Releases below 👇

What is the difference between a tropical storm watch, tropical storm warning, hurricane watch, and hurricane warning?

The National Hurricane Center in Miami has the responsibility for monitoring and issuing watches and warnings in the Atlantic and Northeast basins. A tropical storm watch is issued when tropical storm conditions, including winds from 39-73 mph, pose a possible threat to a specified coastal area within 48 hours, and a warning when tropical storm conditions are expected within 36 hours or less. A hurricane watch is issued when hurricane conditions are expected within 48 hours, and a warning when a hurricane with sustained winds of 74 mph or higher are expected in a specified coastal area in 36 hours or less. If a warning or watch is issued, visitors should begin preliminary preparations for potential landfall and stay tuned to radio and TV for official weather and evacuation updates.

Should we cancel travel plans during hurricane season?

We clearly understand that some people have concerns about the possible impact a hurricane could have on a planned vacation. It is always wise when making travel plans during hurricane season to check with airlines, hotels, car rental companies, etc. to find out how they inform their guests when a hurricane is approaching, what actions they plan to take, and what refund policies they have in place. Once again, it is important to point out that a direct hit to any one particular destination by a major hurricane is an extremely rare event.

For travelers that have upcoming reservations: we recommend you contact your hotel or vacation rental as soon as possible to get the best information on how they are proceeding through the next days. If they are not able to respond right away, please be assured every property is committed to assisting our visitors as soon as possible.

Where to find real-time travel and weather information?

You can find multiple travel resources provided by VISIT FLORIDA, such as real-time traffic reports, gas availability, travel safety and more: https://www.visitflorida.com/more/current-travel-safety-information/.
Local hurricane preparedness resources and immediate releases on evacuation, shelters, and more are available below, with local press releases. This page will continue to be updated as the Volusia County Emergency Management office releases new information. You may also register to receive emergency alerts via AlertVolusia Public Safety Notification System.
For national alerts and notifications, visit: www.nhc.noaa.gov.

Contact Our Team

Your safety is our utmost priority. We will be posting more updates from official authorities as often as they are released. Please don't hesitate to contact our team at the New Smyrna Beach Visitors Bureau directly via phone: (800) 541-9621 or message us on Facebook/Instagram if you have any concerns or questions.