“This morning, I spoke with Governor DeSantis to inform him that we've approved the Emergency Declaration for Florida as they prepare for Hurricane Idalia, and FEMA has pre-deployed personnel and assets. Florida has my full support as they prepare for Idalia and its aftermath,” Biden wrote on social media platform X.

The declaration allows federal assistance to supplement local and state response efforts.

Idalia is currently located over the Caribbean Sea and is forecast to move north across the Gulf of Mexico and make landfall in Florida on Wednesday.

The storm is expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and storm surge to Florida.

The National Weather Service has issued a storm surge warning for parts of the Florida coast, and a hurricane watch is in effect for a large portion of the state.

Residents in the affected areas are urged to make preparations and to follow the instructions of local officials. (ILKHA)