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Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always

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Home Care In Clearwater, FL

Home Care Clearwater, FL

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic City of Clearwater Centennial Monument gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Clearwater, FL is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Clearwater, FL

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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TESTIMONIALS

“Always best care tarpon Springs office has been a life saver with caring for my mother with dementia. Her caregiver Linda is so dedicated to her job, and my mom and me love her to death. She is very communicative, and passionate about what she does. My mom could not live independently if i did not have always best care and linda by her side. Also whenever speaking with scheduling and office staff- they are always helpful and friendly too! Thanks guys! Yall do amazing work!”

Kristi D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Cyndi is an extraordinary caregiver and ABC service has been reliable, responsive and outstanding.”

Joan C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I'm a former employee of ABC and I had an awesome experience working with them. The office staff is very warm and welcoming. The owners, Keith and Jeri are super nice and personable. They recognize their employees every month, they also have different events where we could get together and socialize. I've learned so much more, that wasn't taught at "school". Not a bad company to work for.”

Sonia M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We have used Always Best Senior Care more than once. Their service has always exceeded our expectations. I would not hesitate to recommend them.”

Colleen C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have used Always Best Care for two extended periods. All the staff assigned to take care of my father were excellent and punctual. The office staff are great and have become great friends. I would recommend this company for the care of your family members.”

Jef K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Raina King is a true angel, a gift from God. Our beloved Grandmother passed away today and unfortunately we live far away. Raina was in constant communication with us through the entire journey. She gave great comfort to our loved one and we could not have been blessed with a better person to be by Gram’s side. God Bless you and all that you do. ????????❤️ Highly recommend.”

Erika V.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I love working for for ABC. The owner's are very compassionate about their clients and caregivers. They go above and beyond to help those in need. I have 20+ years in healthcare and I have never worked with such an AMAZING team!”

Jessica C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I'm a HHA for this company and there amazing people to work for!!”

Ashley C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I’ve worked for Always Best Care going on a year. I love Jeri and Keith, very understanding. Rebeca, Natalie and Lisa, Also in the office, all listen to our needs and concerns. They are very understanding to all the caregivers, I feel like a big family with our clients. Working for this company is like having a very big extended family and I love it and would not give it up. And yes I would definitely and highly recommend Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs Florida. The extended family that I don’t have, but I do now. Thank you for letting me be a part of Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs Florida.”

Dawn U.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs has given me peace of mind knowing that my mom is in good hands. She enjoys their services and I highly recommend them! Thank you for your love and kindness.”

Barb W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Keith and Jeri are angels that walk among us. My in-laws have been receiving care from Always Best since May 2019. They are in their 90’s and still in their own home. This has been a year of challenges as my mother-in-law has dementia and my father-in-law’s health has gotten more tenuous. Keith has taken my dad to the hospital and urgent care, grocery shopped for them and scrambled to provide aides on short notice after hospitalization. We live out of state and I have had to depend on them so much. Jeri and Keith go above and beyond and I trust them implicitly! I can’t say enough good about them and I know that they will be successful because they are ethical, caring and operate their business with the highest degree of integrity. We consider ourselves extremely fortunate to have been referred to them.”

Karen M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“ABC is a well managed and high quality home health care service. All the workers have been consistently good and provide excellent care for our father. Rebeca has been awesome to ensure our needs are satisfied and that we always have the round the clock coverage we need.”

Jack B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs has given me peace of mind knowing that my mom is in good hands. She enjoys their services and I highly recommend them!”

Barb W.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Clearwater, FL?

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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

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At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Clearwater, FL

Types of Elderly Care in Clearwater, FL

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Clearwater, FL
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Clearwater, FL
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Edgewater Drive Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Clearwater, FL
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Blinkers Beachside Steakhouse and Lounge or visit Welcome To Clearwater FL Sign, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Clearwater, FL

Benefits of Home Care in Clearwater, FL

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Clearwater, FL, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Clearwater, FL

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your FL's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Clearwater, FL

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Clearwater, FL understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Clearwater, FL

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Clearwater, FL

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • Grand Villa of Clearwater
  • Aravilla Clearwater Memory Care
  • Lincolnshire Assisted Living
  • The Preserve at Clearwater
  • The Landmark
  • Wickshire Countryside
Home Care Clearwater, FL

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Clearwater, FL

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Clearwater, FL 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Clearwater, FL

Latest News in Clearwater, FL

Clearwater residents oppose proposed 35-story twin towers

CLEARWATER, Fla. — A proposed 35-story twin condo complex in Clearwater has nearby residents asking city leaders to take a look at the potential environmental impacts it could cause.Though, the developer says it’s too soon to criticize the plans since this is only a proposal.What You Need To Know The property is located at 432 Bay Avenue in Clearwater.Maryellen Gordon lives at the Prelude 80 condo complex, right next to where the proposed development would be located. She originally m...

CLEARWATER, Fla. — A proposed 35-story twin condo complex in Clearwater has nearby residents asking city leaders to take a look at the potential environmental impacts it could cause.

Though, the developer says it’s too soon to criticize the plans since this is only a proposal.

What You Need To Know

The property is located at 432 Bay Avenue in Clearwater.

Maryellen Gordon lives at the Prelude 80 condo complex, right next to where the proposed development would be located. She originally moved in the condo complex because of the waterfront view. But it’s the work that’s being proposed outside that caught her eye.

“We knew this would get developed at some point, we just never expected it would be able to come that close to the coast line, and we never thought that it would go as ridiculously and inexplicably tall as it is going,” she said.

Gordon said residents in her complex learned that a developer is proposing to build twin towers, 35 stories high, on the water, right next to her condo complex.

“Just to give you neighborhood context. Our building is about 13 stories, the assisted living facility right there is about 15 stories. I believe the tallest building in Clearwater is probably that white high rise and that’s 23 to 25 stories,” Gordon said. “There are plans to put in an underground parking garage facing the coastline. So the questions about sustainability and resiliency of that are also a huge issue.”

It’s huge for Jeffrey Denis. He’s the president of the Prelude 80 condo complex’s association. He says the proposed building makes him think of tragedy.

“We think of Surfside definitely,” Denis said of the 2022 building collapse there. “This building is built on the same bedrock as they’re gonna be drilling and we’re worried about what is that going to do to our foundation.”

Valor Capital is the development company in charge of the proposed project. The company submitted documents to the City of Clearwater about the project. But officials with the development firm say the renderings and plans are just conceptual and proposals.

The company is currently doing Geotech work on the property, using rock and soil mechanics to investigate the subsurface geologic conditions.

Representatives from the company said they’re in the beginning stages of the long process to figure out if city leaders think the proposal is even possible. The final design process is still another year and a half out.

So, nothing is set in stone and the worries of residents like Denis and Gordon will be considered in community meetings before any foundation is laid, according to the development firm.

Hurricane Idalia livestreams: Watch webcams stationed along Florida coast as storm nears

Florida and other southeastern states are bracing for impact as Hurricane Idalia nears the coast between Tampa Bay and Panama City, with an expected landfall around Wednesday morning.You can watch livestream coverage of the storm from USA TODAY at the embed at the top of the page or on ...

Florida and other southeastern states are bracing for impact as Hurricane Idalia nears the coast between Tampa Bay and Panama City, with an expected landfall around Wednesday morning.

You can watch livestream coverage of the storm from USA TODAY at the embed at the top of the page or on USA TODAY's YouTube channel.

The storm is expected to be a major hurricane with "life-threatening storm surge and dangerous winds," according to the National Hurricane Center.

A hurricane warning has been issued for hundreds of miles of Florida's coastline as Idalia, with max winds of 130 mph. As of 5 a.m. Wednesday, the National Hurricane Center said the storm's center was forecast to reach the Big Bend coast of Florida this morning. After landfall, Idalia is expected to turn toward the northeast and east-northeast, moving near or along the coasts of Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina later Wednesday and Thursday.

Live updates:Florida braces for 'extremely dangerous' storm as Hurricane Idalia closes in

Live webcams that may be in Hurricane Idalia's path

Hurricane Idalia is moving into the Gulf of Mexico, forecast to hit Florida's west coast on Wednesday morning. According to the National Hurricane Center, life-threatening flooding, a massive storm surge and strong winds are expected along Florida's Gulf Coast.

The storm is expected to then travel north, hitting the Florida-Georgia border and along the coasts of Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina.

Hurricane Idalia's path:Maps show powerful storm as it approaches Florida and Georgia

Some beaches and other areas have livestreams that may catch the impact of the storm as it moves through Florida. You can watch some of those livestreams here.

Sandestin, Florida

Sandestin is in Florida's panhandle along the Gulf of Mexico, located about 36 miles northwest of Panama City Beach.

Clearwater Beach, Florida

Clearwater Beach is located on the west-central coast along the Gulf of Mexico, around 25 miles west of Tampa.

Tampa, Florida

Tampa is along the Gulf of Mexico, and is projected to be directly in the path of Hurricane Idalia. It is about 23 miles north of St. Petersburg and 25 miles east of Clearwater Beach.

St. Petersburg, Florida

St. Petersburg is on Florida's west coast along the Gulf of Mexico and the Tampa Bay, around 23 miles west of Tampa.

St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine is along Florida's east coast on the Atlantic side, around 40 miles south of Jacksonville.

A meteotsunami was on Clearwater Beach. Here’s what to know about it.

We’ve come to expect a lot from Florida weather.Sweltering heat — sure. Severe thunderstorms — been there, done that. Meteotsunami — I’m sorry, what?That’s right, a meteotsunami. Last week the weather phenomenon formed on Clearwater Beach as a line of severe weather rolled in from the west. Water levels rose about 2 ½ feet higher than what would have been normally expected, according to water level data.While the term may be unfamiliar, it’s not uncommon for our area. Just...

We’ve come to expect a lot from Florida weather.

Sweltering heat — sure. Severe thunderstorms — been there, done that. Meteotsunami — I’m sorry, what?

That’s right, a meteotsunami. Last week the weather phenomenon formed on Clearwater Beach as a line of severe weather rolled in from the west. Water levels rose about 2 ½ feet higher than what would have been normally expected, according to water level data.

While the term may be unfamiliar, it’s not uncommon for our area. Just a week prior, a meteotsunami also occurred on Clearwater Beach.

What is a meteotsunami?

A meteotsunami produces a similar wave to a tsunami, however the cause of this wave is different. Seismic activity causes a tsunami, while a meteotsunami is caused by weather (meteorology, get it?). A disturbance in air pressure often coupled with fast-moving severe storms can produce these waves, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

“The storm generates a wave that moves toward the shore, and is amplified by a shallow continental shelf and inlet, bay or other coastal feature,” the administration said.

The meteotsunami on Clearwater Beach occurred just before 2 p.m. Wednesday as storms marched toward shore. Preliminary data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shows water levels peaked at about 5 ½ feet.

“A lot of times when that happens — you get squall lines like that or there’s a big cluster of storms that come in — they produce so much wind that you end up with a little push of a foot or two ... of extra water on top of the tide briefly,” said Paul Close, a senior meteorologist at the National Weather Service’s Tampa Bay office.

How common is a meteotsunami?

They happen more often than you think. Close said he noticed a meteotsunami a week prior on June 17 on Clearwater Beach, the same day a waterspout cropped up injuring two people. Preliminary water level data shows the tide peaking at about 5 feet, about 2 feet above the anticipated water level that day.

A meteotsunami can happen when a line of storms (not just a single storm) rolls in from the west, Close said. However, storms forming in the west are unusual for our area. An average summer afternoon thunderstorm, which often start to the east, won’t produce a meteotsunami, he said.

Conditions for a meteotsunami are most favorable along the East Coast, Gulf of Mexico and the Great Lakes, according to the National Weather Service.

Research from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration suggests about 25 meteotsunami occur along the East Coast a year. A vast majority are small, meaning less than a foot and a half.

How dangerous are these waves?

Damage from the meteotsunami Wednesday was isolated to some flooding on the beach, according to photos Close saw.

Waves can be higher in other areas of the world. Meteotsunamis have been recorded to reach heights of 6 feet or more, the administration said.

In 1992, for instance, Daytona Beach recorded a 10-foot meteotsunami that crashed onto shore, injuring 75 people and damaging 100 cars, according to the weather service.

Close said regardless of whether a meteotsunami is headed your way or not, you shouldn’t be on the beach during a storm anyway. Gusty winds and lightning pose serious threats. And let’s not forget about waterspouts.

When the sky darkens and you hear rumblings of thunder, Close said, it’s time to hightail it off the beach and seek cover.

Green Thumb to Open RISE Dispensary Clearwater in Florida, its 11th Retail Location in the Sunshine State, on November 10

CHICAGO and VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Nov. 07, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RISE Dispensaries, a rapidly growing cannabis retail chain owned by ...

CHICAGO and VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Nov. 07, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RISE Dispensaries, a rapidly growing cannabis retail chain owned by Green Thumb Industries Inc. (“Green Thumb” or “the Company”) (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF), today announced that RISE Dispensary Clearwater, the Company’s 11th retail location in Florida and 87th nationwide, will open on November 10. RISE Dispensary Clearwater will welcome patients with a grand opening celebration and ribbon-cutting ceremony on November 17, where profits from the day will be donated to Minorities for Medical Marijuana (M4MM). M4MM is a purpose-driven nonprofit organization that provides education and programs to build a more accessible and equitable cannabis industry.

“As we continue to expand our footprint in Florida, we are thrilled to join the Clearwater community,” said Green Thumb President Anthony Georgiadis. “We look forward to introducing more patients to the RISE experience and providing access to high-quality cannabis products that will help improve their well-being."

Green Thumb joined the Florida community in 2018 and operates two production facilities in Ocala and Homestead where the Company produces its branded products. Green Thumb’s cultivation and manufacturing practices reflect the highest quality standards to ensure all its products offer a true-to-plant, consistent experience. The Company’s retail brand, RISE Dispensaries, is committed to expanding access to well-being through cannabis and making a positive impact on the communities it serves. In addition to RISE Clearwater, there are ten other RISE Dispensaries in Florida, including locations in Bonita Springs, Brandon, Deerfield Beach, Fruitland Park, Hallandale Beach, Kendall, Oviedo, Pinellas Park, Sun City Center and West Palm Beach, with delivery services available at each location. All RISE Dispensaries in Florida offer products from Green Thumb’s award-winning family of brands, including RYTHM premium flower and full spectrum vapes, Dogwalkers pre-rolls, Good Green flower, and &Shine flower, pre-rolls, vapes and chews.

Located at 1724 Gulf to Bay Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33755, RISE Dispensary Clearwater is open on Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Minutes away from Clearwater Beach, the dispensary offers a range of high and low-potency THC and CBD products perfect for beginners and cannabis connoisseurs.

For information on how to become a medical cannabis patient, email [email protected]. For more information on RISE Dispensaries' locations, product offerings or other services, visit www.risecannabis.com.

Hurricane Idalia livestreams: Watch webcams planted along Florida coast as storm hits

Hurricane Idalia made landfall on Florida's Gulf Coast Wednesday morning with the National Weather Service warning of a "life-threatening, dangerous situation."USA TODAY is providing live coverage of the storm as it makes landfall in Florida. You can watch the coverage at the top of the ...

Hurricane Idalia made landfall on Florida's Gulf Coast Wednesday morning with the National Weather Service warning of a "life-threatening, dangerous situation."

USA TODAY is providing live coverage of the storm as it makes landfall in Florida. You can watch the coverage at the top of the page or on USA TODAY's YouTube channel.

A hurricane warning has been issued for hundreds of miles of Florida's coastline as Idalia has become Category 3 storm, with sustained winds of 125 mph.

As of 5 a.m. Wednesday, the National Hurricane Center said the storm's center was forecast to reach the Big Bend coast of Florida this morning. After landfall, Idalia was expected to turn toward the northeast and east-northeast, moving near or along the coasts of Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina later Wednesday and Thursday.

At a briefing Tuesday, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said highway tolls were being waived, shelters were opening and hotels were prepared to take evacuees. More than 30,000 utility workers were preparing to repair outages once the storm passes.

Maps:Hurricane Idalia's path as powerful storm approaches Florida and Georgia

Webcam livestreams

Webcams are planted at beaches along Florida's Gulf Coast, with some in Hurricane Idalia's potential path. See what the scene in Florida looks like:

Clearwater Beach, Florida

Clearwater Beach is located on the west-central coast along the Gulf of Mexico, around 25 miles west of Tampa.

Tampa, Florida

Tampa, along the Gulf of Mexico, is south of where Idalia's eye was projected to make landfall, but flooding in the Tampa Bay area had already begun by Wednesday morning and the city could still face high winds. It is about 23 miles north of St. Petersburg and 25 miles east of Clearwater Beach.

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