The U.S. National Hurricane Center said Cuba suffered “significant wind and storm surge impacts” when the hurricane struck with top sustained winds of 125 mph (205 kmh). Its exact track could determine how severe the storm surge is for Tampa Bay, said University of Miami hurricane researcher Brian McNoldy. “And you’re going to end up with really significant storm surge and you’re going to end up with really significant flood events. Hundreds of residents were being evacuated from several nursing homes in the Tampa area, where hospitals were also moving some patients. Forecasters said the storm surge could reach 12 feet (3.6 meters) if it peaks at high tide.
