Ian Makes Landfall in Florida as Category 4 Hurricane

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX – Hurricane Ian made landfall on the west coast of Florida this afternoon with maximum sustained winds estimated at 150 mph, making it a strong Category 4 storm. Ian is the strongest hurricane to hit that area of Florida in decades. The storm’s impact will be felt in South Texas and the western Gulf of Mexico.

The National Weather Service predicts the hurricane will produce waves as high as eight to 12 feet, resulting in hazardous seas, minor coastal flooding, high surf, and the risk of rip currents Wednesday through Friday. Swimmers should use extreme caution due to dangerous water conditions.

A Small Craft Advisory is in effect until 7:00 p.m. Thursday. A Coastal Flood Advisory continues in effect through Friday morning.

Residents wanting to visit the beach should park along access roads and walk to the beach. The City will notify the Texas General Land Office of any access road closures due to water inundation.

City lifeguards will be located on beach access roads and use mobile units to respond to emergencies. The City has placed message boards at beach access roads advising the public of water and beach conditions.   

Visitors should observe and follow the flag warning system to stay updated about surf and rip current conditions.

North Beach properties, including homes, businesses, and some infrastructure in low-lying areas, could be inundated with flooding along the immediate waterfront. These conditions may last until early next week as bay waters take longer to recede into the gulf through the Corpus Christi Ship Channel.

The public is urged to take precautions and follow local advisories for updates on beach conditions by visiting Corpus Christi Beaches | City of Corpus Christi (cctexas.com).