FL Governor DeSantis Takes Action on Tropical Storm Idalia Readiness Efforts
On Sunday, August 27, at the State Emergency Operations Center, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, flanked by key officials, unveiled comprehensive readiness measures to tackle the impending impact of Tropical Storm Idalia. The Governor stressed the importance of preparedness as the storm gains strength and charts a course towards the Gulf of Mexico.
Weather Update:
As of the latest update at 2 p.m. EDT, Tropical Storm Idalia is situated near Cozumel, Mexico, approximately 410 miles southwest of Key West. With sustained winds at 40 mph, forecasters anticipate its intensification over the next 72 hours as it advances northward.
Swift State Preparedness:
Governor DeSantis underscored the State’s proactive measures to safeguard its residents:
- The Florida National Guard, on high alert, is mobilizing 1,100 personnel along with a fleet of 2,400 high wheel vehicles and 12 aircraft to swiftly respond to affected zones.
- The Florida Department of Law Enforcement has sprung into action by activating its State Emergency Operations Center Team, with 25 officers geared up for immediate deployment, and specialized mobile units poised for action.
- The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has readied a range of resources including high-water vehicles and specialized teams, ready to be dispatched to assist stricken areas.
- The Florida Highway Patrol has readied 300 troopers, adopting 12-hour shifts in readiness for Tropical Storm Idalia.
- Florida Department of Health has expedited a statewide reminder for special needs shelter registration and early prescription refills.
Education and Closures:
Hernando County Schools will remain closed from August 28th through August 31st, preemptively safeguarding students from the storm's impact. Further decisions on school closures will be communicated by the Florida Department of Education.
Citizens’ Safety and Assistance:
The Florida Department of Children and Families assured that plans are in place to request early release of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, contingent upon the storm’s severity.
For those in need of shelter, The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) has mapped out vulnerable individuals’ locations and is urging senior citizens and special needs residents to join Florida’s Special Needs Registry.
Infrastructure and Roads:
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) issued a warning of potential fuel contamination stemming from an incident at the Port of Tampa. Motorists who purchased fuel after 10:00 a.m. on August 27th at stations supplied by Citgo from the Port of Tampa are advised to inspect their fuel. Complaints can be lodged through the FDACS consumer hotline.
Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) teams are on standby with equipment and vehicles, ready to pre-stage or deploy as necessary. Road and bridge closures, as well as travel conditions, are readily available via Florida’s 511 Traveler Information System.
Business Continuity:
FloridaCommerce activated the Florida Private Sector Hotline (850-815-4925) to address business concerns. Community Action Agency Network and Local Workforce Development Boards are prepared to ensure essential services continue seamlessly. Division of Hotels and Restaurants is also coordinating swift response teams to facilitate post-storm reopenings.
Emergency Orders:
Emergency orders have been filed, facilitating assistance for commercial vehicles and waiving certain fees and actions related to credentials issuance. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) issued an Emergency Final Order to expedite repair and restoration efforts for affected structures.
Stay Informed:
Governor DeSantis urged citizens to stay informed by following @FLSERT and @GovRonDeSantis on Twitter and visiting FloridaDisaster.org/Updates for the latest developments.
