Jacksonville’s Emergency Preparedness Division continues to closely monitor the weather conditions that are expected to gradually strengthen into Tropical Storm Imelda by Sunday evening, Sept. 28, and potentially into a hurricane by late Monday or Tuesday as it parallels the Atlantic coast of Florida.
The storm is forecast to move over central and northwestern Bahamas into the night and approach the U.S. coast early this week. It is then forecast to make a right turn away from the Southeast U.S. coast, according to the National Hurricane Center.
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What can Jacksonville expect with Tropical Storm Imelda?
Here’s is the city’s Sept. 28 advisory:
While the center of the storm and worst weather conditions are likely to remain offshore, Jacksonville may experience the following weather conditions:
High risk of life-threatening rip currents and hazardous boating conditions starting later today through Wednesday.
25-35 mph wind gusts along the Beach starting Monday afternoon with the strongest winds on Tuesday.
Heavy pockets of rain that can produce 1-2” and possible isolated flooding in low-lying areas on Monday and Tuesday.
Minor coastal flooding on Monday and Tuesday.
Currently, there are not any planned evacuation orders, shelter openings, or schedule changes for city of Jacksonville offices, the Jacksonville Transportation Authority or Duval County Public Schools.
We will continue to monitor the storm forecast and provide updates to the public. Citizens should take the following precautions:
Clean Drains and Gutters: Ensure that all drains and gutters are clear of debris so that water can drain properly. Blocked gutters can lead to water overflow, which might cause water damage to your home. Cleaning them out now can help mitigate potential flooding issues if we receive heavy rainfall.
Proceed with Caution During Commutes: Drivers could experience heavy rain and wind gusts during their Monday evening and Tuesday morning commutes. Give yourself extra time, drive carefully, and be aware of your surroundings.
Avoid Driving Through Flooded Roads: If you encounter flooded roads, do not attempt to drive through them. The depth of water is not always obvious. It only takes a small amount of water to float a vehicle, which can lead to dangerous situations. Always heed barricades and road closure signs put in place for your safety.
Stay Weather Aware: Keep up to date with the latest weather forecasts and updates from official sources such as the National Weather Service and the Emergency Preparedness Division (JaxReady.com). Being informed will help you make timely and safe decisions for you and your family.
Weather watches and warnings issued in Florida
Tropical Depression 9, future Tropical Storm Imelda spaghetti models, path
Florida weather radar for Sept. 28, 2025
Forecasters urge all residents to keep an eye on the tropics and to always be prepared
Officials regularly encourage Florida residents to prepare for storms before a hurricane is approaching, while shelves are fully stocked and you aren’t battling crowds all rushing to the store at the same time.
“It only takes one storm to make it an impactful year for your community,” the National Hurricane Center Miami posted on X.
➤ See list of emergency supplies you can now buy tax free
On Aug. 1, specific hurricane supplies became permanently tax-free in Florida, ranging from batteries to generators.
➤ Don’t have a hurricane supply kit? From the basics to the extras, here’s what you need
Here are some of the basics you should have:
Two-week supply of medications
A go-bag with essential supplies in case you need to leave quickly
Portable cellphone chargers
List of emergency phone numbers, including those for family members
Copy of your insurance policy
When does hurricane season end?
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30.
Ninety-seven percent of tropical cyclone activity occurs during this time period, NOAA said.
The Atlantic basin includes the northern Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and the newly renamed Gulf of America, formerly the Gulf of Mexico.
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This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Here’s the Tropical Storm Imelda outlook for the Jacksonville area