Storm cancels IBEX 2022

The Atlantic Hurricane season may span from June 1 to November 30, but it is September when it sharpens its teeth, and Tropical Storm Ian is hungry.

Confidence among forecasters anticipates it to undergo explosive intensification into a major hurricane in the western Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico, a danger to the Cayman Islands, western Cuba, and Florida in the coming days.

Based on the weather reports from NOAA and consultation with the City of Tampa, Tampa Convention Center and other stakeholders, the imminent arrival and uncertain nature of the storm forces has cancelled the 2022 International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX), which was to be held September 27-29 in Tampa, FL.

The 31st IBEX Show is North America’s largest trade event for recreational marine industry professionals, and is owned and produced by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and RAI Amsterdam.

“From Governor DeSantis’ recent press conference, it is clear that it is neither safe nor advisable to ask our exhibitors, staff and visitors to travel to, or be in, Tampa, FL this week,” said an IBEX statement. “Thank you for your patience and understanding as we share this difficult decision.”

As Florida prepares for Ian, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for all 67 counties. This will make more resources available for storm preparation and will also activate members of the Florida National Guard to be put on standby ahead of Ian’s arrival.

Ian is forecast by the National Hurricane Center to become a hurricane in the western Caribbean Sea sometime on September 25-26, hitting the Tampa region by September 28.