Logistics update: Tropical Storm Nicole

November 11, 2022

Operational Update: Tropical Storm Nicole Impacts Florida

Tropical Storm Nicole strengthened as a category one hurricane on Wednesday evening and made landfall south of Vero Beach on Thursday. According to the National Hurricane Center, Nicole continued west-northwest, impacting much of the Southeast coast, causing strong winds, heavy waves, coastal flooding, and heavy rain. The storm is expected to enter Georgia as it diminishes to a tropical depression and brings heavy rain to portions of the Southeast, mid-Atlantic, and New England through the weekend. There are currently no coastal watches or warnings in effect. However, port congestion is expected in the next few days due to delays caused by the storm.

Gulf Coast ports' current status:

• Freeport, Miami, Jacksonville, and Port Everglades are currently open
• Savannah and Charleston remain closed due to storm impacts

Tropical Storm Nicole is expected to land near Melbourne, FL, on November 10th. After Florida's landfall, Nicole is expected to weaken while moving across the southeastern U.S. Thursday and Friday. Yet it will continue to threaten flooding and damage to Florida, and heavy rain, storm surge, and tornadoes are expected in the area. Although this phenomenon is still categorized as a Tropical Storm, hurricane conditions are expected in northwest Bahamas and east-central Florida beginning Wednesday until Thursday morning, leading to hurricane warnings in effect for both locations. Consequently, port delays on the Gulf Coast are expected due to weather conditions.

Gulf Coast ports' previous status:

• Florida's Freeport was closed on November 8th and possibly reopened on November 10th if weather conditions improve.
• Miami, Everglades, Jacksonville, and Savannah ports are open with some restrictions.
• Charleston port remains open.

Vessel operations will be resumed once approved to reopen by USCG.