Breaking News: Nassau and Clay Counties Issue Urgent Evacuation Warnings Ahead of Hurricane Milton’s Arrival
By TNW News - Breaking News Staff | 5:14 PM CDT, October 8, 2024

As Hurricane Milton, now a Category 5 hurricane with sustained winds of 161 mph, edges closer to Florida’s west coast, emergency management officials in Nassau and Clay Counties have issued urgent evacuation recommendations for vulnerable areas. Residents in these regions are strongly advised to heed warnings and finalize storm preparations before conditions worsen.

Evacuation Urged in Flood-Prone Areas

Nassau County Emergency Management has strongly recommended that residents in Zone A, Zone D, and beachfront, intracoastal, marshfront, low-lying, or flood-prone areas evacuate immediately. Similarly, Clay County officials are urging residents in low-lying areas and those living along Black Creek or the St. Johns River to relocate as a precaution. While there are no mandatory evacuations in Clay County at this time, officials stress that those in flood-prone zones should consider moving to safer locations.

Hurricane Milton’s Forecasted Impact

Hurricane Milton has been rapidly intensifying, with current models suggesting that it could make landfall near the Tampa Bay area on Wednesday evening, October 9, 2024. While slight weakening before landfall is anticipated, the storm is expected to retain major hurricane status and expand in size as it approaches the coast. Catastrophic winds, life-threatening storm surges, and heavy rainfall will threaten millions of Florida residents.

State Mobilization and Emergency Response

The Florida Division of Emergency Management continues to respond to over 600 resource requests from communities in the storm’s path. Emergency supplies such as truckloads of food, water, ambulances, and Starlink satellite units are being distributed to critical areas. Additionally, over 2,000 feet of flood protection systems are being deployed to protect critical infrastructure in Central Florida and along the coast.

In preparation for Milton’s arrival, debris removal efforts following Hurricane Helene have intensified. Pinellas County’s barrier islands have seen nearly 9,000 cubic yards of debris cleared, with work ongoing until conditions become too hazardous.

Storm Surge and Inland Flooding Risk

A state of emergency remains in effect across dozens of Florida counties. Officials are particularly concerned about the potential for storm surges up to 12 feet in the Tampa Bay area, which could cause widespread flooding and damage. Residents along Florida’s First Coast, including the Jacksonville metro area, could experience gusts of up to 70 mph, heavy rains, and storm surges of up to 4 feet.

Final Preparations and Sandbag Distribution

With the storm fast approaching, residents are encouraged to secure their properties and finalize preparations by Tuesday evening. Sandbag distribution sites remain open throughout South Florida, providing residents with crucial flood protection resources. Up-to-date information on sandbag locations is available at TNWWeather.com.

TNW Hurricane Operations Providing 24/7 Coverage

As Hurricane Milton approaches, the TNW Hurricane Operations Division, led by General Manager Todd Nardone, remains fully operational. The division is providing live, around-the-clock updates via TNWWeather.com and social media platforms, including X, Threads, and Instagram. Residents are urged to follow these updates closely and stay informed about the storm’s evolving track and intensity.

Stay Safe and Stay Informed

TNW News encourages residents in affected areas to take immediate action to protect themselves and their families. Power outages, flooding, and structural damage are highly likely in many regions, and those in evacuation zones should not delay.

For the latest information on evacuation orders, storm preparation tips, and real-time updates, visit FloridaDisaster.org and use the Know Your Zone tool to determine your evacuation status. TNW News and TNWWeather.com will continue to provide comprehensive coverage as Hurricane Milton approaches.

TNW News – Keeping You Safe, Keeping You Informed