DeSantis calls hurricane Isaias’ name “weird” — But where does it come from?

Ervin Shkulaku/DUANEWS.NET

As Hurricane Isaias approaches Florida’s Gulf Coast, Governor Ron DeSantis has drawn attention for an unusual comment about the storm’s name.

During a news conference Thursday, DeSantis admitted that he was having difficulty pronouncing Isaias and described the name as unusual.

“I don’t know how to pronounce this, because it’s not normal,” DeSantis said.

The governor explained that he would simply call the hurricane “Isaiah” rather than continue struggling with its official pronunciation.

Is Isaias an Islamic Name?

Despite questions about its origin, Isaias is not originally an Islamic name.

It is the Spanish form of Isaiah, a biblical name with ancient Hebrew roots. The name means “God is salvation” and is associated with the prophet Isaiah in the Old Testament.

The National Hurricane Center lists the official pronunciation as “ees-ah-EE-ahs.”

Can DeSantis Change the Hurricane’s Name?

No. The governor’s remarks do not change the storm’s official designation.

Atlantic hurricane names are maintained through an international naming system coordinated by the World Meteorological Organization.

The storm will continue to be officially known as Hurricane Isaias.

A Serious Storm Behind an Unusual Comment

While the governor’s remarks have attracted attention, Hurricane Isaias remains a serious threat to Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Emergency officials are urging residents in vulnerable areas to follow evacuation instructions and prepare for potentially dangerous weather conditions.

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