abc-logo
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

phone-number336-654-5001 lm-right-arrow

Please submit form to schedule a

Personal Care Consultation

Local Magic Personal Care Consultation

Please submit this form below and we will chat shortly!

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
SUBMIT REQUEST

Home Care In West Bend, NC

Home Care West Bend, NC

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 Wisconsin State Historical Marker 551: The West Bend Aluminum Company 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 West Bend, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

In-Home Care West Bend, NC

care-serviceHome Care Services

location Service Areas

Read More
Elderly Care West Bend, NC Request More Information vector

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.

Hear from Our Clients
Elderly Care for MJ F.
551
Google

“This company is TOP-NOTCH! Incredibly helpful and super friendly. If you’re looking for a part-time”

This company is TOP-NOTCH! Incredibly helpful and super friendly. If you’re looking for a part-time in caregiving, this is it! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
In-home Care for Meredith K.
551
Google

“Sandy is very knowledgeable of assisted living options in the Winston Salem area. She helped”

Sandy is very knowledgeable of assisted living options in the Winston Salem area. She helped with a family member’s search with care and consideration. We highly recommend.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Home Care Services for Ginger M.
551
Facebook

“I highly recommend Sandy Bowen with Always Best Care. I called her with a very”

I highly recommend Sandy Bowen with Always Best Care. I called her with a very tight timeframe to find a suitable memory care facility for my family member. She asked a lot of questions about my loved one to try and get to know her as much as possible. She worked very fast and lined up several appointments for us to tour places within a matter of days. She explained the process to me every step of the way and made sure we stayed on track. She attended the appointments with me and asked questions that I would never think to ask. I can’t thank her enough.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Elderly Care for Phillip B.
551
Google

“The staff and caretakers are wonderful. Would absolutely recommend to anyone who needs at home”

The staff and caretakers are wonderful. Would absolutely recommend to anyone who needs at home care for themselves or loved ones
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
In-home Care for Barry C.
551
Google

“During an unexpected hospital stay, Joanne provided much needed assistance. She provided excellent care and”

During an unexpected hospital stay, Joanne provided much needed assistance. She provided excellent care and supportive advocacy. It made dealing with the discomfort more bearable and gave me a safeguard to decipher the complicated choices to resolve health issues. I highly recommend this service.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Home Care Services for Laura M.
551
Google

“If you are looking for attentive, quality home care look no further than Joanne and”

If you are looking for attentive, quality home care look no further than Joanne and her team. A passion for excellence is driven for from this team. Family oriented and willing to work with all families.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Senior Care Services for Mary E.
551
Google

“These folks are so helpful! They care about their clients and it shows in the”

These folks are so helpful! They care about their clients and it shows in the service! I highly recommend ????
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Non-medical Home Care for Michael B.
551
Google

“The staff and caretakers are wonderful. Would absolutely recommend to anyone who needs at home”

The staff and caretakers are wonderful. Would absolutely recommend to anyone who needs at home care for themselves or loved ones
Read full testimonial
×
TESTIMONIALS

“This company is TOP-NOTCH! Incredibly helpful and super friendly. If you’re looking for a part-time in caregiving, this is it! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️”

MJ F.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Sandy is very knowledgeable of assisted living options in the Winston Salem area. She helped with a family member’s search with care and consideration. We highly recommend.”

Meredith K.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I highly recommend Sandy Bowen with Always Best Care. I called her with a very tight timeframe to find a suitable memory care facility for my family member. She asked a lot of questions about my loved one to try and get to know her as much as possible. She worked very fast and lined up several appointments for us to tour places within a matter of days. She explained the process to me every step of the way and made sure we stayed on track. She attended the appointments with me and asked questions that I would never think to ask. I can’t thank her enough.”

Ginger M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“The staff and caretakers are wonderful. Would absolutely recommend to anyone who needs at home care for themselves or loved ones”

Phillip B.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“During an unexpected hospital stay, Joanne provided much needed assistance. She provided excellent care and supportive advocacy. It made dealing with the discomfort more bearable and gave me a safeguard to decipher the complicated choices to resolve health issues. I highly recommend this service.”

Barry C.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“If you are looking for attentive, quality home care look no further than Joanne and her team. A passion for excellence is driven for from this team. Family oriented and willing to work with all families.”

Laura M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“These folks are so helpful! They care about their clients and it shows in the service! I highly recommend ????”

Mary E.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“The staff and caretakers are wonderful. Would absolutely recommend to anyone who needs at home care for themselves or loved ones”

Michael B.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in West Bend, NC?

lm-check

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.

lm-check

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

lm-check

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.

lm-check

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.

Request More Information
Senior Care West Bend, NC

Types of Elderly Care in West Bend, NC

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
Request More Information
Respite Care West Bend, NC
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
Request More Information
Caregivers West Bend, NC
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 Regner 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
Request More Information
Home Care West Bend, NC
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 Krimmer's Restaurant or visit The Tower Heritage Center, 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.

Request More Information
In-Home Care West Bend, NC

Benefits of Home Care in West Bend, NC

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.

Request More Information vector

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 West Bend, NC, 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 West Bend, NC

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 NC'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 West Bend, NC

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 West Bend, NC 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 West Bend, NC

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 West Bend, NC

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:

  • The Waterford at West Bend
  • New Perspective Senior Living
  • West Bend
  • Ivy Manor of West Bend
  • The Cornerstone Assisted Living
  • Hawthorn Manor Inc
Home Care West Bend, NC

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 West Bend, NC

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

lm-right-arrow
01

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

lm-right-arrow
02

Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

lm-right-arrow
03

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 West Bend, NC 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.

Request More Information vector
Elderly Care West Bend, NC

Latest News in West Bend, NC

Catamounts, Fighting Irish Meet Saturday in South Bend

Cullowhee, N.C. – Fresh off its season-opening home 106-65 victory over Dalton State to open the 2023-24 regular season, the level of competition ramps up this weekend as Western Carolina men's basketball hits the road for the first time on Saturday afternoon to open back-to-back road games, traveling to South Bend, Ind., to face the Notre Dame ...

Cullowhee, N.C. – Fresh off its season-opening home 106-65 victory over Dalton State to open the 2023-24 regular season, the level of competition ramps up this weekend as Western Carolina men's basketball hits the road for the first time on Saturday afternoon to open back-to-back road games, traveling to South Bend, Ind., to face the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.

Tobacco Road meets Hoosiers on Saturday as teams from arguably the top two basketball states in the union square off for the first time on the hardwood when WCU invades the double-domed Joyce Center on a Veterans Day afternoon matinee. Tip-off is scheduled for 2 p.m.. The game will be broadcast on the ACC Network Extra and ESPN+ (paid subscription required), and also through the Watch ESPN app. Live stats through StatBroadcast are also available online at CatamountSports.com. Please note that there will not be coverage through the Catamount Sports Network due to football.

Western Carolina (1-0) claimed its season opener for the second time under third-year head coach Justin Gray back on Tuesday night as four Catamounts scored in double figures in the mostly one-sided win. Senior Vonterius Woolbright, the Southern Conference Preseason Player of the Year, paced WCU with a game-high 19 points with sophomore DJ Campbell scoring 18 on 7-of-9 shooting. Bernard Pelote drained four of WCU's 11 3-pointers to finish with 14 points while senior Tre Jackson poured in a dozen including a pair of made triples.

The Fighting Irish is seeing purple for the second-straight game in opening the Micah Shrewsberry era in South Bend when the Catamounts roll into town. Notre Dame (1-0) scored a season-opening 70-63 victory over the Niagara Purple Eagles back on Monday (Nov. 6) night, overcoming a sluggish start and rallying from a 12-point deficit. Freshman point guard Markus Burton set a Notre Dame freshman debut record with 29 points.

Notre Dame was picked 15th in the current 15-team Atlantic Coast Conference preseason polling.

Guard play should dominate Saturday afternoon's storylines as WCU returns a three-headed backcourt monster featuring a trio of preseason All-SoCon selections. Woolbright is joined by Jackson and classmate Russell Jones Jr. as the great distributor. Those three look to contain Irish frosh Burton who looks for an encore performance after rookie debut.

Saturday marks the first-ever meeting between the Catamounts and Fighting Irish on the men's basketball hardwood. Western Carolina has faced 11 of the current 15 teams in the ACC, a league which sprung from The SoCon back in 1953. WCU is 3-51 all-time against the perennial basketball power conference with victories coming at Georgia Tech in 1980, at Florida State in 2001, and most recently over the Rick Pitino-led Louisville Cardinals in 2009.

The SoCon is currently 1-2 against the ACC in 2023-24 with both losses suffered by The Citadel. The Bulldogs fell 72-59 at NC State to open the season before a slim, four-point loss to Boston College on Friday night in Charleston. Also on Friday, Chattanooga scored the SoCon's first ACC win of the year with an 81-71 victory over Louisville.

Following Saturday's road game at Notre Dame, the Catamounts travel to Murfreesboro, Tenn., to face Middle Tennessee on Monday, Nov. 13 with a 7:30 p.m. ET / 6:30 p.m. CT tip-off against the Blue Raiders. Monday's game will be broadcast on ESPN+ (paid subscription required) with coverage from the Catamount Sports Network beginning at 7 p.m. Fans can listen to CSN locally in Sylva on 105.7 FM / 540 AM WRGC, The River, with live streaming audio and a link to live stats both available on CatamountSports.com.

Keep track of everything related to Catamount men's basketball and WCU Athletics through our social media outlets on Facebook (fb.com/catamountsports), Instagram (@catamountmbb @wcu_catamounts), and Twitter (@CatamountMBB @catamounts).

Tropical Storm Idalia now over southern South Carolina, National Hurricane Center says

Hurricane Idalia made landfall at 7:45 a.m. near Keaton Beach as a powerful Category 3 storm. Maximum sustained winds were 125 mph when the eye moved onshore, according to the ...

Hurricane Idalia made landfall at 7:45 a.m. near Keaton Beach as a powerful Category 3 storm. Maximum sustained winds were 125 mph when the eye moved onshore, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Earlier Wednesday morning, Idalia briefly reached Category 4 status with 130-mph winds. It weakened to a tropical storm early Wednesday evening.

As of 8 p.m. Wednesday, Idalia was located over South Carolina and is expected to continue moving east and northeast over land before moving over the Atlantic this weekend, the NHC said.

? Spaghetti models for Hurricane Idalia

? Excessive rainfall forecast

At 8 p.m., the center of Idalia was over southern South Carolina. Florida's Gulf Coast is still experiencing high water levels behind by the hurricane.

Highlights from the 8 p.m. advisory include:

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency in 49 counties, a broad swath that stretches across the northern half of the state from the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic Coast.

Live updates across Florida:Hurricane Idalia closing in on Florida landfall with Category 4 punishing winds

Final Idalia forecast:An impact breakdown based on your city for deadly wind and surge

Where is Keaton Beach, Florida?

Hurricane Idalia made landfall near Keaton Beach with 125-mph winds at 7:45 a.m. Aug. 30.

Keaton Beach is located in Florida's Big Bend region. It's about 75 miles southeast of Tallahassee or 100 miles west of Gainesville.

Where is Keaton Beach?5 things to know as Hurricane Idalia makes landfall

Tropical Storm Idalia: Latest location over South Carolina

Special note on the NHC cone: The forecast track shows the most likely path of the center of the storm. It does not illustrate the full width of the storm or its impacts, and the center of the storm is likely to travel outside the cone up to 33% of the time.

WeatherTiger:Hurricane Idalia surge will be 'difficult to survive' in areas of Florida Big Bend

Live updates from Tallahassee:Category 4 Hurricane Idalia closes in

At 8 p.m., the center of Tropical Storm Idalia was located 60 miles west of Charleston, South Carolina.

Idalia is moving toward the northeast near 21 mph and this general motion is expected to continue through tonight. A generally eastward motion is forecast to begin on Thursday and continue through Saturday.

On the forecast track, the center of Idalia will move near or along the coast of South Carolina through tonight, and then just offshore of the coast of North Carolina on Thursday. Idalia will then move eastward over the western Atlantic into the weekend.

Maximum sustained winds have decreased to near 65 mph with higher gusts. Some additional weakening is forecast through tonight, but Idalia is expected to remain a tropical storm while it moves near the coasts of South Carolina and North Carolina.

Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 205 miles from the center. A sustained wind of 39 mph and a gust to 50 mph were recently reported at Folly South End, South Carolina, near Charleston.

The estimated minimum central pressure is 985 mb.

Watches and warnings issued for Tropical Storm Idalia

For an explanation of what the watches and warning mean, scroll to the bottom of this story.

A Storm Surge Warning is in effect for…

A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for…

A Storm Surge Watch is in effect for…

Weather alerts issued across Florida

Spaghetti models for Hurricane Idalia

Powerful storm surge impacts Florida

STORM SURGE: The combination of storm surge and tide will cause normally dry areas near the coast to be flooded by rising waters moving inland from the shoreline. The water could reach the following heights above ground somewhere in the indicated areas if the peak surge occurs at the time of high tide:

Savannah River to South Santee River, SC...3-5 ft

Saint Catherines Sound, GA to Savannah River...2-4 ft

Beaufort Inlet, NC to Ocracoke Inlet, NC...2-4 ft

Neuse and Bay Rivers...2-4 ft

Pamlico and Pungo Rivers...2-4 ft

South Santee River, SC to Beaufort Inlet, NC...1-3 ft

Ochlockonee River, FL to East Cape Sable, FL...1-3 ft

Tampa Bay...1-3 ft

Charlotte Harbor...1-3 ft

Flagler/Volusia County Line, FL to Saint Catherines Sound, GA...1-3 ft

Ocracoke Inlet, NC to Duck, NC...1-3 ft

The deepest water will occur along the immediate coast in areas of onshore winds, where the surge will be accompanied by large waves. Surge-related flooding depends on the relative timing of the surge and the tidal cycle, and can vary greatly over short distances.

WIND: Tropical storm conditions are occurring within the tropical storm warning area along the coasts of Georgia and South Carolina, and will spread across coastal sections of North Carolina tonight through Thursday.

RAINFALL: Idalia is expected to produce a swath of 4 to 8 inches of rainfall with isolated maxima up to 10 inches from east-central Georgia through central to eastern South Carolina and eastern North Carolina into Thursday. These rainfall amounts will lead to areas of flash, urban, and moderate river flooding, with considerable impacts. The trailing moisture band from Idalia has the potential to produce additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches across the west coast of Florida.

SURF: Swells generated by Idalia along the eastern and central Gulf coast will subside tonight and Thursday. Swells will affect the southeastern U.S. coast during the next few days. These swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.

TORNADOES: A few tornadoes will be possible through this evening across coastal South Carolina and through tonight across southern coastal North Carolina.

Idalia downgraded to tropical storm in Georgia after making landfall as powerful Category 3 storm in Florida

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Hurricane Idalia strengthened Wednesday morning into a catastrophic Category 4 storm before dropping to a powerful Category 3 as it made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region around 7:45 a.m.By 5 p.m., Idalia was downgraded to a tropical storm but a storm surge was still expected along the southeastern coast. The center of the storm was 40 miles west of Savannah and winds were clocked at 70 mph.Tropical-storm force winds and flooding are expected to affect Georiga, South Carolin...

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Hurricane Idalia strengthened Wednesday morning into a catastrophic Category 4 storm before dropping to a powerful Category 3 as it made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region around 7:45 a.m.

By 5 p.m., Idalia was downgraded to a tropical storm but a storm surge was still expected along the southeastern coast. The center of the storm was 40 miles west of Savannah and winds were clocked at 70 mph.

Tropical-storm force winds and flooding are expected to affect Georiga, South Carolina and North Carolina into Thursday.

Some additional weakening is forecast through tonight, but Idalia is expected to remain a tropical storm while it moves near the coast.

Vic Micolucci reports live from Dixie County as Hurricane Idalia pushes through

3.1K

This is a modal window.

No compatible source was found for this media.

Idalia is moving toward the northeast near 21 mph (33 km/h), and this general motion is expected to continue through tonight. A generally eastward motion is forecast to begin on Thursday and continue through Saturday. On the forecast track, the center of Idalia will move near or along the coasts of Georgia and South Carolina through tonight, and then just offshore the coast of North Carolina on Thursday. Idalia will then move eastward over the western Atlantic into the weekend.

Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 205 miles from the center. A sustained wind of 52 mph and a gust to 67 mph were recently reported at the Savannah Entrance Light.

The estimated minimum central pressure is 984 mb.

MORE: Hurricane Idalia menaces Florida’s Big Bend, the ‘Nature Coast’ far from tourist attractions

Idalia is expected to produce a swath of 4 to 8 inches of rainfall with isolated maxima up to 12 inches from the Florida Big Bend through central Georgia and South Carolina, and through eastern North Carolina into Thursday. These rainfall amounts will lead to areas of flash, urban, and moderate river flooding, with considerable impacts.

The deepest water will occur along the immediate coast near and to the right of the center, where the surge will be accompanied by large and destructive waves.

For Northeast Florida, the worst weather is past us. Breezy conditions -- 20-30 mph -- continue through the day with brief showers. The tornado threat continues for areas in southern Georgia where heavy rain shifts northward away from Jacksonville.

As Idalia leaves land, the Southeast surveys damage

President Biden plans to travel to Florida on SaturdayUpdated August 31, 2023 at 7:23 p.m. EDT|Published August 31, 2023 at 9:22 a.m. EDTIdalia was racing out to sea off the North Carolina coast as a post-tropical cyclone, a day after barreling into Florida’s Big Bend area as a Category 3 hurricane. Tied for the strongest hurricane on record to make landfall in the Big Bend, the storm produced a devastating storm surge and destructive winds in the region before sweeping across southeastern Georgia ...

President Biden plans to travel to Florida on Saturday

Updated August 31, 2023 at 7:23 p.m. EDT|Published August 31, 2023 at 9:22 a.m. EDT

Idalia was racing out to sea off the North Carolina coast as a post-tropical cyclone, a day after barreling into Florida’s Big Bend area as a Category 3 hurricane. Tied for the strongest hurricane on record to make landfall in the Big Bend, the storm produced a devastating storm surge and destructive winds in the region before sweeping across southeastern Georgia and the Carolinas with flooding rains and more surge-related flooding at the coast.

Want to know how your actions can help make a difference for our planet? Sign up for the Climate Coach newsletter, in your inbox every Tuesday and Thursday.

Some areas in Florida were battered. As the storm swept through the region, it cut power to swaths — with more than 160,000 still left without power in Florida and Georgia combined as of Thursday evening.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) said he saw a lot of “heartbreaking damage” on Thursday, as he spoke from a news conference in Steinhatchee, Fla. “When people lose a church or lose a home, or a business, it’s hard.” he said. “It’ll be a lot of hard work, but we will get everyone back on their feet.”

Tracking Hurricane Idalia

Predicted track for Hurricane Idalia. (National Hurricane Center)

We’re tracking the path of Hurricane Idalia, which hit Florida’s Gulf Coast as a Category 3 storm Wednesday morning and has continued north through Georgia.

End of carousel

Dan Rosenzweig-Ziff contributed to this report.

The latest: Idalia made landfall in Florida Wednesday morning as a Category 3 hurricane and has moved north through Georgia and toward the Carolinas. It’s brought intense storm surge, flooding and damaging winds.

Where is Idalia having the greatest impact? Here’s our forecast for what to expect next in eight key cities.

Path tracker: We’re tracking Hurricane Idalia in maps as it moves across Florida.

Storm surge: Waters are predicted to swell up to 15 feet in some spots, potentially causing flooding devastating flooding, the National Weather Service warns. Here’s an explanation of what storm surge is.

How to prepare: Our guide will show you how to keep your family and home safe before a hurricane hits, what to do if you’re caught in the middle, and how to pick up when you return.

Show more

Hurricane Idalia

HAND CURATED

Hurricane Idalia damage photos, flooding, aftermath in Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas

How bad was Hurricane Idalia? How big was Hurricane Idalia? Where is Idalia?Those were the most popular questions this week ...

How bad was Hurricane Idalia? How big was Hurricane Idalia? Where is Idalia?

Those were the most popular questions this week in Florida and beyond. Idalia made landfall about 7:45 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 30, near Keaton Beach, in the Big Bend area of Florida, as a Category 3 hurricane. Idalia downgraded from a Category 4 that morning before landfall.

Here's a look back at Idalia storm damage photos in Florida before the hurricane then tropical storm moved on to Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina.

Hurricane Idalia made landfall in Keaton Beach, Florida, as a powerful Category 3 storm

Hurricane Idalia coverage, Weather Channel star Jim Cantore in Cedar Key, Florida

Cedar Key was trending earlier this week when Weather Channel meteorologist Jim Cantore, his producer Steve Petyerak and their team traveled there to cover Hurricane Idalia.

#JimCantore and messages like, "where in the world is Jim Cantore?" consumed social media Aug. 27 and 28 when the National Hurricane Center predicted Idalia would make landfall in Florida. On Monday, Aug. 29, Cantore boarded a flight with coincidentally Ken Block of the rock band Sister Hazel ("All for You," "Champagne High") from Atlanta International Airport to Gainesville, according to a Facebook post from Block. From there, the Weather Channel star headed to Cedar Key, ate dinner at Steamers restaurant, then reported on Idalia for much of the week.

Idalia was a big storm.But how did it compare to Hurricane Michael, Andrew, Florence and Irma?

Hurricane Idalia photos in Big Bend, Gulf Coast of Florida

Hurricane Idalia damage photos in Steinhatchee, Florida

Hurricane Idalia damage in Sarasota, Florida

Hurricane Idalia damage in Sarasota County and Manatee County, Florida

The state of Colorado.That's about how big an area Hurricane Idalia covered at landfall

Crushed cars? Hurricane Idalia effects in Cross City, Florida

Hurricane Idalia coverage in Brevard County: Lots of wind, swells

Hurricane Idalia effects in Indian River County, St. Lucie County and Martin County, Florida

Hurricane Idalia cleanup and recovery in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina

After landfall in Florida, Hurricane Idalia caused damage in Savannah, Georgia

Tropical Storm Idalia damage in Augusta, Georgia

Photos:Why Weather Channel host Jim Cantore's known for Florida hurricanes, storms and thundersnow

Hurricane Idalia damage in Statesboro, Georgia, and Bulloch County, Georgia

Tropical Storm Idalia damage in Wilmington, North Carolina

Tropical Storm Idalia flooding in Cape Fear, North Carolina

Sangalang is a lead digital producer for USA TODAY Network-Florida. Follow her on Twitter or Instagram at @byjensangalang. Support local journalism. Consider subscribing to a Florida newspaper.

Disclaimer:

This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.