Citrus County prepares for Hurricane Idalia

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Dedicated to capturing the essence of Citrus County throughout his career, photographer Matt Beck presents a compelling visual narrative. In this exclusive photo compilation, he skillfully documents the preparations undertaken by the residents of Citrus County as Hurricane Idalai approaches.

As the storm draws near, we invite you to witness these powerful images that encapsulate the strength of a community preparing for the challenges ahead. Through the lens of Matt Back, the Citrus County Chronicle captures not only the physical preparations but also the unwavering spirit that binds us all.

In the days to come, our commitment remains steadfast – to keep you informed, and connected. Turn to the Citrus County Chronicle, both in print and online, for comprehensive photo coverage of Hurricane Idalai.

Randy Brumm places half-inch plywood over the large glass windows at Sodium Fishing Gear in Crystal River early Tuesday morning, Aug. 29. Strong winds and a powerful storm surge are expected Wednesday, Aug. 30, along all of Citrus County’s coastline as a result of Hurricane Idalia.

Cars line up on the tallest bridge in the Ozello community to protect the vehicles from the tidal surge expected from Hurricane Idalia.

Pete's Pier in Crystal River is home to large vessels moored at their docks. Under increasingly threatening skies, boat owners take precautions Tuesday morning, Aug. 29, as Hurricane Idalia spins through the Gulf.

Traffic at area boat ramps, like Pete’s Pier in Crystal River, pictured above, stay busy with boaters removing their vessels from coastal waters Tuesday morning, Aug. 29, in preparation for the impact of Hurricane Idalia.

A Port Hotel and Marine staff worker secures kayaks to a pontoon boat early Tuesday morning, Aug. 29, as those working and living on the water finalize preparations for Hurricane Idalia.

ABOVE: While gasoline was available early Tuesday morning, many stations had difficulty keeping up with demand as the day progressed.

LEFT: A Port Hotel and Marine staff worker secures kayaks to a pontoon boat early Tuesday morning, Aug. 29, as those working and living on the water finalize preparations for Hurricane Idalia.

The West Citrus Convenience Center sandbagging location bustles with activity Tuesday morning, Aug. 30 as residents load bags to protect property. Currently, the limit is 12 bags per vehicle, at the two full-service sandbag locations.

Some gas stations, like this Circle K at Ozello Trail and U.S. 19, had some pumps labeled as out of gas early Monday.

LEFT: Boaters crowd the boat ramp near MacRae’s in Homosassa Monday morning, Aug. 28, to load their vessels and move them inland, away from the water.

Buses leave the Citrus Springs Middle School late Monday morning as students across the district are released from school early due to the impending storm. Many schools within the district are opened as shelters during emergencies.

Gator MacRae uncovers himself from a tarp as he and other workers at MacRae’s popular Homosassa resort cover and move bar equipment from The Shed, a waterfront restaurant and bar Monday morning, Aug. 28. MacRae said if there is any good news he has heard about the oncoming storm, it is that it’s forecast to be fast-moving.

Those living on the waterfront have unique issues when storms approach. This couple moves items from their dock to a more secure location within the Riverhaven community Monday.

Chronicle photo editor

Crystal River resident Bill Lee shovels sand into a waiting bag Monday morning, Aug. 28, behind the Crystal River Fire Department. Forecasters expect a hurricane to impact Citrus County Wednesday.

Photo editor

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