On August 30, 2017, the storm known as Irma formed over the Far East Atlantic. On August 31, 2017 Irma became a major hurricane at Category 3 strength.

On September 5, 2017 Irma became a Category 5 strength storm as it neared the Caribbean Islands. The storm developed to 185 MPH sustained winds, setting a record for the Atlantic Basin.

Also on September 5, 2017 Florida Governor Rick Scott declared a State of Emergency for the all of Florida and mobilized nine thousand National Guard troops to assist with storm preparations and then recovery operations.

Officials in Monroe County, which includes the Florida Keys, issued a mandatory evacuation order on Wednesday September 6, 2017. Broward County, which includes Fort Lauderdale, advised people to evacuate some areas. In South Florida, which has millions of people and only two major highways, Interstates 95 and 75, to take people farther north, traffic and fuel shortages were already becoming problems as people tried to get out of the storm’s path. A nearly insurmountable task given the storm was twice as wide in size as the state of Florida.

Lee County government shut down non-essential operations and closed schools starting Thursday
September 7, 2017.

On September 7, 2017 forecast models suggested the storm would track east along the outer edge of the Atlantic coast of Florida. Our area would see tropical storm strength winds.

On September 8, 2017 forecast models suggested the storm would track more to the west and right through the center of the state. This new forecast called for increased tropical storm strength winds and possibly Category 1 wind conditions for our area.

Hurricane Irma made landfall near Marco Island as a Category 3 storm, with winds sustaining at 115 MPH.

At about 6:19PM Hurricane Irma crossed through Gateway and the Gateway Greens community as a strong Category 2 hurricane, with winds of 110 MPH.

At about 7:05PM the eye of the storm was upon the community. A quick assessment of the Mahogany Run South area showed extensive tree damage and street flooding.

I was able to get outside during the eye of the storm to experience the eye (and get some photos).

For those who might ask,,, why don't you evacuate - responsibilities AND how the heck do we pack three dogs and two cats for a trip to who know where?