Hurricane Matthew, the strongest Caribbean storm in almost a decade is headed for the U.S.
No Atlantic storm on record has packed such powerful winds for such a prolonged period time as Hurricane Matthew, as its slow trajectory and potent energy have wound a path of destruction that looks to continue as it approaches the southeast coast of the United States.
A hurricane warning is already in effect for parts of Florida, from Golden Beach north all the way up to Sebastian Inlet, as well as Lake Okeechobee. The area north of Sebastian Inlet to the Fernandina Beach is also under a hurricane watch. Meanwhile, a tropical storm warning is in effect from Chokoloskee to Golden Beach, the Florida Keys from the Seven Mile Bridge eastward, as well as Florida Bay, according to the National Hurricane Center.
The governors of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina have each declared a state of emergency. They have issued stern warnings for millions of coastal residents to prepare to evacuate as Hurricane Matthew moves northwest at about 10 mph.
The storm did slow down, and it did move somewhat, but these areas are not in stable territory yet.
Hurricane Matthew is expected to take aim at Florida’s east coast Thursday night into Friday. The current forecast projects the storm will weaken as it touches the Carolinas on Saturday before heading back out to sea Sunday night.
