Thursday, September 19, 2024
Amelia Johnson Legislative Affairs Director at Florida Division of Emergency Management | Official Website

Governor DeSantis issues update on preparations ahead of severe weather

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Under the leadership of Governor DeSantis, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) continues to monitor and prepare for potential impacts from Tropical Depression Four. Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-157 on August 2, amending EO 24-156 and declaring a state of emergency for 61 counties. This order allows state officials to make critical resources available to communities ahead of any potential areas that the storm may impact.

As of 2 PM EDT, Tropical Depression Four is located about 115 miles southwest of Key West. On the forecast track, the center of the depression will move across western Cuba this morning and then over the eastern Gulf of Mexico later today and Sunday, reaching the Florida Gulf coast late Sunday or Monday.

Maximum sustained winds are near 35 mph with higher gusts, and slow strengthening is expected today and tonight. The depression is expected to become a tropical storm tonight. A faster rate of strengthening is anticipated Sunday through Monday, and the system could be near hurricane strength when it reaches the Florida Gulf Coast.

FDEM is hosting daily calls with all 67 counties to identify needs and ensure the state is prepared to respond quickly and efficiently. Additionally, FDEM is coordinating with state agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private sector partners for any potential resource requests.

Floridians are encouraged to know the flood risks in their area and prepare for potential impacts from Tropical Depression Four. To learn more, residents can visit FloridaDisaster.org/Guide.

State Preparedness Efforts

Health and Human Services

Infrastructure, Roads and State Closures

Resources for Employees, Businesses, and Consumers

Follow FDEM on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook for updates or visit FloridaDisaster.org/Updates for information relating to Tropical Depression Four.

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