Photo: KAREN BLEIER / AFP / Getty Images
(Key West, Fla) - The Florida Keys are feeling the wind and waves from Hurricane Idalia as the storm passes by the island chain to the west. A coastal flood warning is now in effect for the Lower Florida Keys.
Keys spokeswoman Kristen Livengood says they are using Idalia as a preparedness tool and are asking residents and visitors to be smart and safe.
Monroe County Government offices, schools, and airports are open today. Garbage service is running, and utilities are standing by to respond to any power outages.
The National Park Service closed Bahia Honda and Ft. Zach to campers and visitors today.