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Hurricane Idalia makes landfall in Florida’s Big Bend, the ‘Nature Coast’ far from tourist areas

by Ryan Lee
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natural beauty

Hurricane Idalia Strikes Florida’s Untouched Big Bend Region, Far Removed from Tourist Hubs

In the heart of Florida’s wilderness lies the Big Bend region, an enclave of unspoiled natural beauty that stands in stark contrast to the bustling attractions of Disney World and the glitz of South Beach. This haven is where individuals venture to partake in alligator hunts, tarpon fishing expeditions, and quests for scallops in the tranquil shallows. However, this serene landscape found itself in the crosshairs of a formidable hurricane on a fateful Wednesday.

The Big Bend area marks the point where the peninsula seamlessly melds into the Panhandle, situated just southeast of the state’s capital, Tallahassee, and significantly north of the metropolitan sprawl of Tampa. On that Wednesday morning, Hurricane Idalia unleashed its fury, making landfall near Keaton Beach in this sparsely populated territory as a potent Category 3 hurricane. Notably, this event signified the first instance of a major hurricane striking the Big Bend region since the advent of Hurricane Easy in 1950, as documented by the National Hurricane Center.

In this realm of undisturbed splendor, people retreat to bask in nature’s glory and embrace the tranquility of solitude.

Embracing an alternative perspective, the counties encompassing Florida’s Nature Coast espouse the belief that enjoyment transcends fancy dining establishments, amusement parks, and overcrowded shorelines—a sentiment expressed on a dedicated website for the region.

“Amidst your quest for respite, we offer precisely what you seek: primeval forests awaiting exploration, ebony-hued rivers, and crystalline springs fed by nature’s own aquifers, secluded nooks for camping enthusiasts, as well as trails catering to equestrians and hikers,” the website declares. Remarkably, the counties within this expanse harbor over a million acres of pristine, untouched land.

The National Weather Service in Tallahassee labeled the event involving Idalia as “an unprecedented occurrence,” as historical records had never documented major hurricanes traversing the bay adjoining the Big Bend region.

At the time of its landfall on that Wednesday morning, Hurricane Idalia manifested sustained winds nearing 125 mph (205 kph). This low-lying marshland confronted an anticipated storm surge soaring to heights of up to 15 feet (4.5 meters). Amid these stretches of habitation lies Gainesville, where the University of Florida was compelled to suspend classes through Wednesday.

President Joe Biden asserted ongoing engagement with Republican Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who is vying for Biden’s position, as well as other federal and state authorities to appraise the prospective ramifications of the storm.

Speaking from the confines of the Oval Office on Tuesday, Biden voiced concerns about the potential oceanic surge, highlighting the uncertain nature of the situation that demands vigilance. “It’s an hour-by-hour situation. We’re closely monitoring this,” Biden emphasized. “However, I’ve assured the governor and the regional mayor, both likely to be impacted initially, that we are steadfastly committed to providing all necessary assistance for as long as it’s required.”

Given the distinctive configuration of the Big Bend’s coastline, Idalia is poised to usher in substantial storm surges, according to atmospheric scientist Kristen Corbosiero from the University at Albany. “The bay’s particular shape is conducive to substantial storm surges. The water can amass within its confines. When the storm’s winds, moving in a counterclockwise fashion, align with the bay’s shape, water accumulation is amplified,” Corbosiero explained.

Certain individuals, however, exhibited reluctance to heed official evacuation advisories. For instance, Andy Bair, the proprietor of Cedar Key’s venerable Island Hotel, expressed his intent to remain and safeguard his bed-and-breakfast establishment, a heritage dating back to antebellum times. Over the course of his nearly two-decade ownership, the edifice has managed to evade inundation, even during the aftermath of Hurricane Hermine’s deluge in 2016.


Contributions to this report were made by esteemed journalists Seth Borenstein in Washington and Daniel Kozin in Cedar Key, Florida.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about natural beauty

What is the significance of Florida’s Big Bend region?

Florida’s Big Bend region is a natural haven, untouched by commercialism. It’s a sanctuary for activities like alligator hunting, tarpon fishing, and scallop searching in shallow waters.

How did Hurricane Idalia impact the Big Bend region?

Hurricane Idalia, a potent Category 3 storm, made landfall near Keaton Beach in the lightly populated Big Bend area. It marked the first major hurricane to hit the region since Hurricane Easy in 1950.

What is the unique allure of the Big Bend region?

The counties on Florida’s Nature Coast emphasize an alternative form of leisure, emphasizing unexplored forests, blackwater rivers, spring-fed streams, and secluded camping spots for a nature-centric escape.

How rare was Hurricane Idalia’s impact on the Big Bend bay?

The National Weather Service in Tallahassee termed Idalia’s impact “unprecedented.” Historical records have never documented major hurricanes passing through the bay adjoining the Big Bend region.

What were the circumstances of Hurricane Idalia’s landfall?

Hurricane Idalia struck with maximum sustained winds of around 125 mph (205 kph) and a predicted storm surge of up to 15 feet (4.5 meters). Populated areas, including Gainesville, were affected.

What were President Biden’s comments on the situation?

President Biden maintained constant communication with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and other authorities regarding the storm’s potential impact. He assured a commitment to providing necessary assistance.

What makes the Big Bend coastline susceptible to storm surges?

The unique configuration of the Big Bend coastline results in significant storm surge potential. The bay’s shape facilitates the accumulation of water, which is further exacerbated by the storm’s winds.

Did all residents heed evacuation warnings during Hurricane Idalia?

No, some individuals, like Andy Bair, the owner of the Island Hotel in Cedar Key, chose not to evacuate. He aimed to protect his historic bed-and-breakfast, which had historically withstood flooding.

How can readers delve deeper into this story?

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the impact of Hurricane Idalia on Florida’s Big Bend region, readers can refer to the detailed article authored by esteemed journalists Seth Borenstein and Daniel Kozin.

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