European model shift puts Florida at high catastrophic risk

There is good reason meteorologists tell everyone in the forecast cone of uncertainty to prepare for a direct hit from an inbound hurricane.

Today's latest 12Z European model (ECMWF) dramatic westward shift is not what we were hoping for as forecasters. The change puts nearly all of Florida in harm's way for significant hurricane wind damage. The westward shift also brings both Florida coasts into play for significant storms surge.

Widespread power outages

More than 3-million are now projected to be without power after Hurricane Irma. That number may rise in the next 48 hours.

Get the latest from NOAA's National Hurricane Center.