News

Hurricane Idalia and FGCU’s Storm Procedures

Johnathan Minehan, Staff Writer

August 29, 2023

With Hurricane Idalia approaching, students and faculty are advised to take caution and stay informed on procedures to ensure their safety.

Hurricanes and tropical storms can devastate homes bringing in massive winds of up to 157 mph and flooding that can reach over 20 feet. Hurricane Idalia is predicted to be a Category 3 hurricane with wind speeds up to 115 mph once it reaches landfall north of Tampa. The FGCU area is predicted to experience winds up to 80 mph with possible flooding.

FGCU moved to remote operations on Tuesday, Aug. 29 and Wednesday, Aug. 30. FGCU management will provide further information about operational plans Wednesday afternoon. Evacuation is not required for residential students, but they are advised to stay in housing throughout the storm. The dining hall will continue to be open from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., but campus transportation will be closed. The Cohen Student Union, University and Recreation Center, Waterfront, Aquatics Center and residential pools, and the Wilson G. Bradshaw Library will all continue to be closed Wednesday.

When preparing for a storm such as Idalia, it’s important to know what resources you have. FGCU management has been monitoring the storms in collaboration with campus leadership to help give the most accurate and updated information. It’s essential to have an evacuation plan, supplies and think of any person or pet that needs assistance. Storm kits should include flashlights, water, nonperishable foods, batteries, and proper supplies for your pets.

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FGCU Emergency Management recommends these resources to help plan ahead for dangerous storms and other natural disasters.

For family and personal emergency plans visit: https://www.leegov.com/publicsafety/Documents/Emergency%20Management/2018FamilyEmergencyPlan-editable.pdf
For information on evacuation plans visit: https://www.ready.gov/evacuation
For information on preparing your pets visit: https://www.aspca.org/sites/default/files/preparedness_for_pets_sep_2015.pdf
For families with special needs individuals visit: https://www.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/emergency-preparedness-and-response/disaster-response-resources/spns-index.html
For emergency kit guides visit: https://www.ready.gov/kit

FGCU uses the Rave Guardian Eagle App for emergency emails and information. Keep your contact information up to date so you can get information as soon as it is released. FGCU social media will have accurate information on storms and emergency situations. If you have any questions please contact [email protected].

About the Contributors

Johnathan Minehan, Eagle News Assistant Assignment & Features Editor

Johnathan is a senior journalism major, a writer and a photographer who has worked for the Cape Coral Breeze, the Sanibel Island Reporter and Eagle News. He strives to become the best writer he can in Southwest Florida and wants to dive more into broadcast media. He hopes to inspire more students to get involved with Eagle News and make a difference by sharing people's stories and huge events.

Gabriella Lopez, Graphics Editor

Gabriella Lopez is a senior majoring in digital media design with a minor in marketing. She is from Fort Lauderdale and now lives on campus. She has been working with graphics for seven years and has multiple certifications including Adobe Photoshop and Premiere. She has been helping Eagle Media since her sophomore year and has held the official title of Graphics Editor for over a year now. When she is not making the Eagle News magazine, she can be found biking around campus or reading a new book.