Hurricane Hermine News Archive
Information updates concerning Hurricane Hermine.
11/16/16 - SBA's Deadline is Nov. 28 for Physical Damage Disaster Loan Applications for Hurricane Hermine Survivors in Florida
The U.S. Small Business Administration reminds businesses of all sizes, private nonprofit organizations, homeowners, and renters in Florida of the deadline to submit disaster loan applications for damages caused by Hurricane Hermine from Aug. 31 to Sept. 11, 2016. The deadline to submit applications for physical damage is Nov. 28, 2016.
Low-interest disaster loans are available in Citrus, Dixie, Hernando, Hillsborough, Leon, Levy, Pasco and Pinellas counties in Florida which are eligible for both Physical and Economic Injury Disaster Loans from the SBA. Small businesses and most private nonprofit organizations in the following adjacent counties are eligible to apply only for SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans: Alachua, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Hardee, Jefferson, Lafayette, Liberty, Manatee, Marion, Polk, Sumter, Taylor and Wakulla in Florida; Grady and Thomas counties in Georgia.
Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA's secure website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.
Disaster loan information and applications may also be obtained by calling the SBA's Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 (1-800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing), or by emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Loan applications can also be downloaded at www.sba.gov/disaster. Completed applications should be mailed to: U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.
The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is Nov. 28, 2016. The deadline to return economic injury applications is June 28, 2017.
09/30/16 - Florida Survivors Urged to Register for Disaster Assistance
Homeowners, renters and business owners in Citrus, Dixie, Hernando, Hillsborough, Leon, Levy, Pasco and Pinellas counties who were affected by Hurricane Hermine are urged to register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, as they may be eligible for disaster assistance.
The September 28 presidential disaster declaration makes federal assistance available to eligible individuals and business from the hurricane and associated severe storms and flooding in Florida.
Individuals and businesses in the designated counties can begin the disaster assistance process by registering online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 800-621-3362, which is video relay service accessible. Survivors who are deaf, hard of hearing or who have difficulty speaking may call TTY 800-462-7585. Helpline hours are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week until further notice.
Assistance may include grants for temporary housing, rental assistance and home repairs, and for other serious disaster-related needs, such as repairing or replacing damaged or destroyed personal property, and medical and dental expenses. Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration may also be available to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance.
Florida residents should register with FEMA even if they have insurance, but only if their property was damaged by the floods or high winds. FEMA cannot duplicate insurance payments, but under-insured applicants may receive help after their insurance claims have been settled.
Florida Survivors Urged to Register for Disaster Assistance
09/30/16 - Gov. Scott Issues Statement on Federal Disaster Declaration
Today, Governor Rick Scott announced that individuals who
have lost jobs as a result of severe storms and flooding during Hurricane Hermine may be entitled to Disaster Unemployment Assistance. On September 28, 2016, the federal government approved Governor Scott's request for a major disaster declaration for Citrus, Dixie, Hernando, Hillsborough, Leon, Levy, Pasco and Pinellas counties, clearing the way for use of Disaster Unemployment Assistance funds for individuals affected by the storm.
Gov. Scott said, "Following Hurricane Hermine, I spoke with many Floridians and business owners who were severely impacted by the storm, and Disaster Unemployment Assistance will provide much-needed assistance to these individuals and their families. We will continue to provide every available resource to our communities as we work together to rebuild and recover from this storm."
To file a Disaster Unemployment claim, go to https://connect.myflorida.com or call 1-800- 681-8102.
Gov. Scott Issues Statement on Federal Disaster Declaration
09/30/16 - SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to Residents of Florida Affected by Hurricane Hermine and to Private NonProfit Organizations in Florida
The U.S. Small Business Administration's Administrator Maria Contreras-Sweet issued the following statement after the announcement of the Presidential disaster declaration for several counties in Florida affected by Hurricane Hermine that occurred on Aug. 31 - Sept. 11, 2016:
"The U.S. Small Business Administration is strongly committed to providing the people of Florida with the most effective and customer-focused response possible to assist businesses, homeowners and renters with federal disaster loans. Getting businesses and communities up and running after a disaster is our highest priority at the SBA."
The disaster declaration covers the counties of Citrus, Dixie, Hernando, Hillsborough, Leon, Levy, Pasco, and Pinellas in Florida which are eligible for both Physical and Economic Injury Disaster Loans from the SBA. Small businesses and most private nonprofit organizations in the following adjacent counties are eligible to apply only for SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans: Alachua, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Hardee, Jefferson, Lafayette, Liberty, Manatee, Marion, Polk, Sumter, Taylor and Wakulla in Florida; Grady and Thomas counties in Georgia.
The SBA also offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs, such as ongoing operating expenses to PNP organizations. Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance is available regardless of whether the organization suffered any physical property damage.
Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA's secure website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.
Disaster loan information and application forms may also be obtained by calling the SBA's Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing) or sending an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Loan applications can also be downloaded from www.sba.gov/disaster. Completed applications should be mailed to: U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.
The filing deadline to submit applications for physical property damage is Nov. 28, 2016. The deadline to submit economic injury applications is June 28, 2017.
SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to Residents of Florida
Affected by Hurricane Hermine
SBA est listo para Asistir a los Residentes de la Florida
Afectados por las Huracn Hermine
SBA Disaster Assistance Available to
Private NonProfit Organizations in Florida
09/28/16 - Gov. Scott Issues Statement on Federal Disaster Declaration
Today, the federal government approved Governor Rick Scotts request for a major disaster declaration for Florida due to severe storms and flooding that impacted communities and businesses throughout the state following Hurricane Hermine.
To see the request, click HERE.
To see the approval letter, click HERE.
"Hurricane Hermine was the first hurricane to hit our state in over a decade and following the storm, I met with many businesses and families who were severely impacted. While the state immediately stepped in to provide resources and assistance to families, this funding will help our local communities rebuild," Governor Scott said.
The declaration makes federal funding available to affected individuals in the counties of Citrus, Dixie, Hernando, Hillsborough, Leon, Levy, Pasco, and Pinellas.
Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
Federal funding also is available to state, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by Hurricane Hermine in the counties of Citrus, Dixie, Franklin, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Pasco, Pinellas, Suwannee, Taylor, and Wakulla.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
Damage assessments are continuing in other areas, and additional counties may be designated for assistance after the assessments are fully completed.
Beginning tomorrow, residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated counties can begin applying for assistance tomorrow by registering online at http://www.DisasterAssistance.govor by calling 1-800-621-FEMA(3362) or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired. The toll-free telephone numbers will operate from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (local time) seven days a week until further notice.
To view the declaration summary, click HERE.
09/20/16 - Gov. Scott Requests a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration for Florida Following Hurricane Hermine
Governor Rick Scott requested that President Obama make a major disaster declaration for Florida due to severe storms and flooding that impacted communities and businesses throughout the state following Hurricane Hermine. A presidential disaster declaration would provide federal resources to support recovery efforts in Florida. This request is for both individual assistance for families and public assistance to help state agencies and local governments.
Governor Scott said, We must do everything we can to ensure that Florida families and businesses can get back on their feet following Hurricane Hermine. I have traveled across the state to meet Floridians who have been personally impacted by the storm and communities are working hard to recover from flooding and damage. The resources and financial assistance from the Federal Government would support our communities and help them rebuild. We look forward to President Obama immediately issuing a declaration in support of all Florida families and businesses affected by the hurricane.
To view the request, click HERE.
09/06/16 - Gov. Scott to Join FDOT Debris Removal Crews Across Tallahassee
PUBLISHED 09/06/16 7:00 PM EASTERN
Tomorrow, Governor Rick Scott will be joining Florida Department of Transportation crews across the City of Tallahassee to assist with debris removal in the aftermath of Hurricane Hermine.
Governor Scott said, Over the past five days, I have travelled across Tallahassee and spoken with families affected by this storm. Driving around the city, it is clear that there is still too much debris on our roadways and in our neighborhoods. As of this afternoon, there are 15 Florida Department of Transportation crews in Leon County with more than 205 people working nonstop to remove debris so power restoration can continue as quickly as possible. At my direction, there will be even more FDOT crews coming to Tallahassee tomorrow to aid in these efforts.
Tomorrow, I will be joining these incredibly hardworking crews all day to pick up debris. Members of the Florida National Guard, various veterans groups and agency heads have volunteered their time to participate in this effort with me. Cleaning up these areas in Tallahassee is not only crucial to helping utility workers quickly restore power, but it is also crucial to keeping our families and children safe.
Below is the Governors schedule for tomorrow. However, volunteers will be picking up debris all day in these neighborhoods.
WHAT:Hurricane Hermine Debris Clean-Up Kick-Off
WHEN: 8:30 AM
WHERE: Florida Department of Transportation
605 Suwannee St.
Tallahassee, FL
WHAT:Hurricane Hermine Debris Clean-Up Site #1
WHEN: 9:00 AM
WHERE: Lake Bradford Road between Springhill Road and Orange Avenue
WHAT:Hurricane Hermine Debris Clean-Up Site #2
WHEN: 10:45 AM
WHERE: E Indianhead Drive and Kolopakin Nene
WHAT:Hurricane Hermine Debris Clean-Up Site #3
WHEN: 1:45 PM
WHERE: Glenview Drive and Hollywood Drive
Gov. Scott to Join FDOT Debris Removal Crews Across Tallahassee
09/06/16 - Gov. Scott Activates Emergency Bridge Loan Program for Small Businesses Damaged by Hurricane Hermine
PUBLISHED 09/06/16 6:00 PM EASTERN
Governor Rick Scott activated Floridas Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program to support local small businesses impacted by Hurricane Hermine. The bridge loan program, managed by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO), will provide short-term, interest-free loans to small businesses that experienced physical or economic damage during the storm and recovery efforts. The application period is from today through October 31, 2016.
Governor Scott said, I have toured areas across the Gulf Coast and Big Bend and spoken firsthand with families and businesses owners who are ready to get back to work. Restoring Floridas small businesses is crucial to helping our communities recover from Hurricane Hermine and the Bridge Loan Program will help provide much-needed emergency assistance. We will continue to use every available state resource to help Floridians impacted by this storm throughout the entire recovery process.
DEO is currently surveying businesses in the affected counties. To access the business survey, please go to http://flvbeoc.org/index.php?action=bda and select Hurricane Hermine from the drop-down menu.
Gov. Scott Activates Emergency Bridge Loan Program for Small Businesses Damaged by Hurricane Hermine
09/06/16 - Gov. Scott Issues Update On Department Of Transportation Progress In Leon County
PUBLISHED 09/06/16 2:20 PM EASTERN
Today, Governor Rick Scott issued the below update on the Florida Department of Transportation's (FDOT) progress in recovery efforts following Hurricane Hermine. Since Friday, September 2nd, FDOT has been working non-stop to do the following:
- Clear debris such as downed trees and fallen tree limbs
- Install 200 generators in the Tallahassee area to support the operation of traffic signals
- Perform road and bridge assessments
On Sunday, September 4th, the City of Tallahassee accepted Governor Scott's offer for additional contractors from private companies to help the city restore power. These companies are working side-by-side with FDOT personnel and are currently working to remove downed trees and fallen tree limbs, as well as other debris that impact downed power lines in Tallahassee. These contractors are also providing over- line support to the debris removal crews. The crews began work yesterday across the city and are being paid for by state funds.
Today, FDOT dispatched five additional crews in Leon County. There are now 15 FDOT crews in Leon County with more than 205 men and women working on debris removal and power restoration efforts.
Please check Here for complete list of Streets and Road Location for status updates.
Update On Department Of Transportation Progress In Leon County
09/06/16 - Governor Scott Issues Updates On Hurricane Hermine Recovery Efforts
PUBLISHED 09/06/16 2:05 PM EASTERN
Today, Governor Rick Scott issued the below update from the State Emergency Operations Center on recovery efforts following Hurricane Hermine.
EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTIONS BY STATE EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM
THE FOLLOWING COUNTIES HAVE GREATER THAN 2% POWER OUTAGE:
STATEWIDE: 18,293 HOMES AND BUSINESSES WITHOUT POWER
- Leon 11% (16,161 homes without power).
- Wakulla 18% (1,540 homes without power)
- Taylor 2% (133 homes without power)
- Gadsden 2% (363 homes without power)
- 22 State Facilities reported without power
County Buildings are Closed in 1 County:
- Wakulla
School Information
Have reopened today, Tuesday, September 6th: Alachua, Baker, Bay, Bradford, Brevard, Calhoun, Citrus, Clay, Columbia, Dixie, Duval, Flagler, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Hamilton, Hillsborough, Hernando, Holmes, Jackson, Lafayette, Lake, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Marion, Nassau, Okaloosa, Orange, Osceola, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, St. Johns, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor, Union, Walton, Washington, UF Lab and Florida School for Deaf and Blind.
Will reopen on Wednesday, September 7th: Gilchrist (Teacher Work Day), Jefferson, Leon and Wakulla Counties, as well as, FSU and FAMU Lab
Law Enforcement
(FDHSMV, FWC, FDLE)
- 23 out of 27 assigned missions are complete
- The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has two ongoing missions: one in Pasco County to provide public assistance and deliver water and one in Levy County to perform flooding reconnaissance.
- The state is deploying 20 law enforcement officers from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Capitol Police and other state agencies to patrol Leon County tonight
- One death confirmed in Florida by a medical examiner as a result of hurricane
Transportation and Public Works & Engineering
(FDOT)
- Continuing to work missions for pumps, bridge inspection and generators for signalized intersections without power, debris management and public information support
- Providing fueling for the generators deployed in the Tallahassee area for the operation of traffic signals
- Coordinating cut and toss activities associated with utility restoration in Leon, Wakulla County and the City of Tallahassee
- SR 72 in Sarasota is closed with emergency repairs planned
- Continuing to monitor office and school closures
- Providing maintenance and inspections of traffic signals.
- Floridas com Traveler Information System is one of the most effective ways drivers can keep informed about the states roadways during and following any severe weather
Business, Industry & Economic Stabilization
(DEO, OIR)
- Business Damage Assessment surveys from the following counties have been submitted to the Florida Virtual Business Emergency Operations Center (VBEOC)
o Alachua
o Charlotte
o Hillsborough
o Leon
o Pasco
o Polk
o Wakulla - The state continues to support impacted businesses and will report major closures on a case by case basis
- Activating the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program to support recovery
- Developed a hotel availability reporting tool for hotels to regularly notify the state of their lodging capabilities
- Currently more than 80 hotels reporting
- Continue to assist the Human Services branch by filling unmet needs with private sector assistance
- Responding to business inquiries received through the Private Sector Hotline: 850-410- 1403.
Food & Water
(FDACS)
- Continue to support mass feeding partners
- Food Safety Rapid Response Teams have been deployed and assessed 244 food establishments permitted by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). This assessment will take place in 29 counties
- Assessing ice needs for feeding agencies
- Bottled water shipped to impacted areas from state warehouse:
- Leon County 6 Trailers
- Gadsden County 3 Trailers
- Dixie County 1 Trailers
- Pasco County 1 Trailers
- Wakulla County 6 Pallets
Health & Medical Services
(DOH, AHCA, APD, DCF, DEA)
- Monitoring post-impact Health Care Facilities to fulfill needs as requested
- Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point (Pasco County) has been reopened and is accepting patients
- Assisting Leon County Health & Medical Services with prioritizing power restoration
- Providing generators as needed
- Monitoring and updating boil water notices. To see all current notices, please visit org/info
- Providing personnel bug repellant to Dixie and Levy Counties
Human Services Branch
(DBPR, DCF, FDACS, Volunteer Florida)
- Monitoring post-impact Health Care Facilities to fulfill needs as requested
- Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point (Pasco County) has been reopened and is accepting patients
- Assisting Leon County Health & Medical Services with prioritizing power restoration
- Providing generators as needed
- Monitoring and updating boil water notices. To see all current notices, please visit org/info
- Providing personnel bug repellant to Dixie and Levy Counties
Elder Affairs:
- Assessing impact on individuals in homes within the impacted area to ensure there are no unmet needs.
The Salvation Army:
- Providing Services in 7 Counties with 18 Feeding Units
- Meals Served: 2,981
- Hydration (Water, etc.): 2,960
- Snacks: 3,214
- Cumulative to Date:
- Meals Served: 9,602
- Hydration: 9,420
- Snacks: 7,583
Florida Baptist Disaster Relief Missionaries:
- Provided one shower to Wakulla County and have a field kitchen in Leon County.
- Cooked 1,479 meals, served by American Red Cross mobile feeding units.
The American Red Cross:
- 7 shelters open | 40 sheltered
- Wakulla County: Crawfordville Elementary School | 379 Arran Rd Crawfordville FL 32327
- Leon County: Bethel AME Church | 501 W. Orange Avenue Tallahassee FL 32310
- Columbia County: Mason City Community Center | 11110 US Hwy 441 S Lake City FL 32025
- Pasco County: Mike Fasano Regional Hurricane Shelter | 11611 Denton Avenue Hudson FL 34667
- Taylor County: Taylor Elementary |1600 E. Green Street Perry FL 32347
- Dixie County: Trail Rider Community Center | 239 NE 241st Street Cross City FL 32628
- Levy County: Williston High School | 427 W. Noble Avenue Williston FL 32696
Environmental Protection
(DEP, Water Management Districts)
- Monitoring Floridas Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network System and following up on wastewater releases
Resource Management and Communications
(DMS)
- Charging Stations have been placed at the following locations in Leon County for individuals to utilize:
- CenturyLink Locations
1544 Governors Square Blvd. Tallahassee
- T-Mobile/Metro PCS Locations
- 3813 N. Monroe Street Tallahassee FL 32303
- 1424 Capital Circle NW Tallahassee FL 32303
- 3111 Mahan Dr Tallahassee FL 32308
- N Monroe St Suite B Tallahassee FL 32303
- 2450 Spring Hill Dr #2 Tallahassee FL 32305
- 1918 W. Tennessee Tallahassee FL 32304
- Verizon Locations
- Governor's Square, 2014 Apalachee Pkwy, Tallahassee, FL 32301
- 1889 N M L King Jr Blvd, # 1, Tallahassee, FL 32303
- Bradfordville Center, 6721 Thomasville Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32312
- AT&T Locations
- 1706 W Tennessee St, Tallahassee, FL 32304
- 3521 Thomasville Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32309
- 100 N Magnolia Dr, Tallahassee, FL 32301
- Sprint Locations
- 1584 Governors Square Blvd #14, Tallahassee, FL 32301
- 2264 N Monroe St #2, Tallahassee, FL 32303
- A map of feeding locations and charging stations can be found HERE.
- Statewide Law Enforcement Radio System (SLERS) currently has all towers operational. As of this afternoon:
- 5 towers on back-up generators
- 3 towers have been restored to normal operations since last night
- Wireless (Big Bend/ Gulf Coast Counties)
- 7 towers are not operational (5 due to power loss)
- 65 towers are on back-up generators
- 20 towers have been restored to normal operations since last night
- Landlines (Leon County)
- 4,500 customer outages
- 2,000 outages have been restored since last night
Military Support
(Florida National Guard)
- The Florida National Guard continues to provide logistical support at the State Logistical Response Center in Orlando.
Volunteer and Donations
(Volunteer Florida)
- Volunteer Florida has established a list of organizations that are serving individuals, families, and businesses following Hurricane Hermine so that those who want to provide assistance can donate locally. The list can be found here.
- Florida Baptist Convention has deployed 3 chain saw crews to assist with debris removal in three counties; the number of counties continues to expand as more teams are deployed.
- Volunteer Florida has activated Citizen Emergency Response (CERT) teams from 5 counties to assist American Red Cross and The Salvation Army at feeding and distribution sites.
- Volunteer Florida is working with FAMU and Florida Baptist Convention to identify potential housing for volunteers.
- Volunteer Florida partners 2-1-1 and Florida Association of Food Banks are surveying members to identify needs for children, elderly, and individuals with special needs.
- Working with 2-1-1 to obtain a listing of types of calls received requesting assistance and information
- Working with Business, Industry and Economic Stabilization Emergency Support Function to request donation of distribution supplies (i.e. food and cleanup kits) to provide to impacted areas located warehouse.
Recovery
- Collecting data from Initial Damage Assessments for Individual Assistance and Public Assistance
- The Recovery Coordination Center is now activated
- Individual Assistance:
- Taylor County has requested: Joint Individual Assistance/Preliminary Damage Assessment Team Scheduled for Tuesday, September 6th
- Dixie County has requested: Joint Individual Assistance/Preliminary Damage Assessment Team Scheduled for Tuesday, September 6th and Wednesday, September 7th
- Levy County has requested: Joint Individual Assistance/Preliminary Damage Assessment Team Scheduled for Thursday, September 8th
- Individual Assistance Requested: Currently working with FEMA and the county to schedule Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments for Franklin, Hernando, Leon and Wakulla Counties.
- Public Assistance:
- Dixie County has requested: Joint Public Assistance/Preliminary Damage Assessment Team Scheduled for Wednesday, September 7th
- Levy County has requested: Joint Public Assistance/Preliminary Damage Assessment Team Scheduled for Wednesday, September 7th
- Taylor County has requested: Joint Public Assistance/Preliminary Damage Assessment Team Scheduled for Thursday, September 8th
- Public Assistance Requested: Currently working with FEMA and the county to schedule Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments for Franklin, Jefferson and Leon County.
- Vector Control:
- Governor Scott and State Surgeon General Dr. Celeste Philip held a call with all 51 mosquito control districts on Sunday, September 4th, to stress the importance of mosquito control and response following Hurricane Hermine
American Red Cross Damage Assessments:
Central Florida Disaster Assessment
Field report on the observations of the damage assessment teams sent into Pasco County for the following areas:
- Magnolia Valley area:
- Sequoia, Live Oak St, Bergen Ct, flooded unable to access
- Foxwood and Cayuga, Cherry Tree Ln, Clovis Ct flooded unable to access
- Holly Lake Ln. near Clovis flooded unable to access
- Duck Ln flooded unable to access
- Valley Dr near Cherry Tree Ln flooded unable to access
- Celeste Ln near Congress St flooded unable to access
- Leo Kidd Ave and Siesta Ln flooded unable to access
- Sun Coast Gateway and mobile home park:
- Unable to access 175 homes, pumping in progress
- Lake Worrell:
- Cameo Dr. (Starting at house #85361) unable to access including Sunrise Ln.
- Other areas in Lake Worrell are okay.
- Bass Lake Area:
- Brookwood Dr. and Outpost Rd unable to access neighbor at 9005 Outpost Dr stated 1 foot initially entered her home.
- Westlock Dr. Unable to access.
- Royal Palm Ave unable to access near Osceola Dr.
- Rest of Bass lake unable most roads but houses appeared to have NVD.
- Elfers Parkway Area:
- Creek Dr. in addition to all connected roads flooded unable to access.
- Worthington Court Apartment Complex:
- Apartments flooded in rear water above a/c units unable to confirm apt numbers due to flooding (approximately 8 buildings)
- NOTE: Heavy mosquito infestation
- Blue Heron Area: (Actual name is Blue Heron Point 21 mobile homes affected 36)
- East of Congress approximately 2-3 blocks over Aurora and Carnelian flooded
- West side of Blue Heron, (Blue Heron Point 21 mobile homes affected 36) septic tanks flooded requesting water and supplies
- Griffen Park Mobile Home Park:
- Canton and Mango St. unable to access, 12 mobile homes observed flooded
- Peony St and Canton unable to access flooded (large mobile home park unable to observe majority of homes)
- Salvation Army is in area providing food and water to Blue Heron locale.
*All the following numbers are Preliminary Disaster Assessments gathered from local emergency management except for the DDA completed in Hillsborough County.
North Florida Disaster Assessment:
- Leon County: 80% completed Killearn Lakes, Damage mostly affected or minor. We will continue to have teams in all regions of Leon county tomorrow
- Wakulla County: 80% completed Crawfordville.
- Taylor County: Steinhatchee is 90 % Complete and 80% of the unincorporated area north of Steinhatchee have been completed.
- Levy County: Teams continue to work in this county
- Dixie County: Teams continue to work in this county
The Florida Division of Emergency Management is the state agency charged with preparing for all types of disasters in Florida The Division is the states disaster liaison with federal and local agencies, and is the lead consequence management agency for the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) The Division maintains the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) in Tallahassee and the State Watch Office, the 24-hour communications and command center for response coordination Follow the Division on social media at www.facebook.com/FloridaSERT or on Twitter @FLSERT
Updates On Hurricane Hermine Recovery Efforts
09/06/16 - Governor Rick Scott: Additional Utility Resources Standing By To Help Tallahassee
PUBLISHED 09/06/16 10:10 AM EASTERN
Governor Scott released the following statement following his meeting with city and county leaders in Tallahassee regarding power restoration efforts in Leon County.
Governor Scott said, This afternoon, I offered the City of Tallahassee and Talquin a proposal that included having utility workers operate side by side with contractors the state hired to be more efficient in restoring power. I am pleased that Talquin has accepted this proposal, and I am eagerly awaiting a response from the City of Tallahassee. As I said during the meeting with local officials this evening, I am appreciative of everyones hard work on restoring power, from the call center operators to the line men and women. However, I am incredibly disappointed about where the city is on restoring power. It has been almost four days since the storm and there are still over 21,000 families and businesses in Tallahassee without power. My focus is on what can the city and county do differently and what additional resources can be provided to fully restore power to all citizens.
I have been assessing damage in Tallahassee and speaking with members of the community for the past four days. People across the city are frustrated. Right now, some schools are unable to open, businesses cant open, people cannot go back to work to generate the income to feed their families and the list goes on.
Both the state and many private companies have offered additional resources many times. In addition to previous offers made since Friday, tonight utility companies have once again offered to aid the city in power restoration efforts. This includes 400 workers from Duke Energy, 300 workers from Florida Power of Light, 75 workers from Gulf Power, 40 workers from Jacksonville Electric Authority and 210 workers from TECO. These companies are currently awaiting the citys response on whether this is something that could be helpful to restoring power. Earlier today, we announced that in addition to the crews accepted by the City of Tallahassee from the state yesterday, more contractors were deployed at my direction this afternoon to further help restore power. This is something the state will continue to fund and we will keep sending crews.
The hurricane season is not over, and next time we could be facing an even stronger storm. Cities and counties must be prepared. The State will continue to offer every available resource to Tallahassee, Leon and Wakulla counties to help families without power so they can begin to recover.
Additional Utility Resources Standing By To Help Tallahassee
09/05/16 - Governor Scott: Additional Power Restoration Crews to be Deployed to Speed Up Power Recovery Process
PUBLISHED 09/05/16 3:45 PM EASTERN
Governor Rick Scott announced that in addition to the crews accepted by the City of Tallahassee yesterday, more contractors from private companies are being deployed this afternoon to further help restore power. While crews began working this morning, more resources are needed to quickly finish removing the downed trees and fallen tree limbs, as well as other debris that impact downed power lines, across the city. The additional crews will be paid for by state funds.
Governor Scott said, I am grateful to the many crew members across the city who are clearing debris so power can be fully restored to Tallahassee. While they are hard at work, it is clear that even more resources are needed and that is why I am deploying even more contractors today. The citys goal was to have 90 percent of homes in Tallahassee restored today, but with over 21,000 homes without power, it is clear the city needs more outside resources. I have also offered the city a proposal which includes providing city utility workers to pair with these contractors we hired which will be more efficient in restoring power.
Additional Power Restoration Crews to be Deployed to Speed Up Power Recovery Process
09/05/16 - Governor Scott Issues Update On Department Of Transportation Progress In Leon County
PUBLISHED 09/05/16 3:15 PM EASTERN
Today, Governor Rick Scott issued the below update on the Florida Department of Transportation's (FDOT) progress in recovery efforts following Hurricane Hermine. Since Friday, September 2nd, FDOT has been working non-stop to do the following:
- Clear debris such as downed trees and fallen tree limbs
- Install 200 generators in the Tallahassee area to support the operation of traffic signals
- Perform road and bridge assessments
Last night, the City of Tallahassee accepted Governor Scott's offer for additional contractors from private companies to help the city restore power. These companies are working side-by-side with FDOT personnel and are currently working to remove downed trees and fallen tree limbs, as well as other debris that impact downed power lines in Tallahassee. These contractors are also providing over- line support to the debris removal crews. The crews began work today across the city and are being paid for by state funds.
The following table details the progress made by the crews to clear debris and help power restoration efforts since beginning work this morning:
HAZARD LOCATION | STATUS | EST. COMPLETION TIME |
---|---|---|
Stearn St - between Eugenia St and Mosely St |
Pending | 3:00 PM |
Dozier Drive - North of E Orange Ave | In Progress | 3:00 PM |
Live Oak Plantation Rd - Multiple trees down between N Meridian Rd and Thomasville Rd |
In Progress | 3:00 PM |
Baum Road - just north of Hwy 90 | Complete | |
McCracken Rd - West of Baum Rd | Complete | |
Lakeshore Dr - between N Meridian Rd & Old Bainbridge Rd |
Complete | |
Sharer Rd - between Lakeshore Dr and N Monroe |
Complete | |
Gibbs Dr - South of E Tharpe St | Pending | 3:00 |
Bragg Dr - West of S Adams St | Complete | |
Perkings Rd - between Old Bainbridge Rd and N Monroe St | Complete | |
Miccosukee north of I-10 between I-10 & Crump Rd - Several Trees down with power lines |
Complete | |
Old St Augustine Rd - between Blair Stone Rd & Capital Circle | Complete | |
Orange Ave - between Jim Lee Rd & Blair Stone Rd | Complete | |
Tram Rd - Near Gaile Ave | Complete | |
Barineau Rd - between Capital Circle and I-10 | Complete | |
Old Bainbridge Rd - between Capital Circle and I-10 (3 different locations) | Complete | |
Just south of 6th Ave on N Gadsden St | Complete | |
Bronough Rd - between E Tharpe St and Gaines St | Complete | |
6th Ave - between Martin Luther King Jr and Centerville Rd | In Progress | 3:00 PM |
7th Ave - between Martin Luther King Jr and Centerville Rd | In Progress | 3:00 PM |
Fleetwood Rd | Complete |
Issues Update On Department Of Transportation Progress In Leon County
09/05/16 - Governor Scott Issues Updates On Hurricane Hermine Recovery Efforts
PUBLISHED 09/05/16 2:25 PM EASTERN
Today, Governor Rick Scott issued the below update from the State Emergency Operations Center on recovery efforts following Hurricane Hermine.
THE FOLLOWING COUNTIES HAVE GREATER THAN 2% POWER OUTAGE:
STATEWIDE: 33,778 HOMES WITHOUT POWER
- Leon 19% (26,438 homes without power).
- Wakulla 18% (2,648 homes without power)
- Taylor 10% (1,193 homes without power)
- Gadsden 6% (1,394 homes without power)
- Madison 5% (542 homes without power)
- Hamilton 5% (342 homes without power)
- Jefferson 4% (302 homes without power)
- 28 State Facilities reported without power
COUNTY BUILDINGS ARE CLOSED IN FOUR COUNTIES:
- Jefferson
- Taylor
- Wakulla
- Leon (partial)
EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTIONS BY STATE EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM
Law Enforcement
(FDHSMV, FWC, FDLE)
- 17 out of 25 assigned missions are complete
- One death confirmed in Florida by a medical examiner as a result of hurricane
Transportation and Public Works & Engineering
(FDOT)
- Continuing to work missions for pumps, bridge inspection and generators for signalized intersections without power, debris management and public information support
- Providing fueling for the 200 generators deployed in the Tallahassee area for the operation of traffic signals
- Coordinating cut and toss activities associated with utility restoration in Leon County and the City of Tallahassee
- SR 72 in Sarasota is closed with emergency repairs planned
- SR 54 in Pasco remains operational with one lane open in each direction
- Continuing to monitor office and school closures
- Providing maintenance and inspections of traffic signals
Business, Industry & Economic Stabilization
(DEO, OIR)
- Business Damage Assessment surveys from the following counties have been submitted to the Florida Virtual Business Emergency Operations Center (VBEOC)
o Alachua
o Charlotte
o Hillsborough
o Leon
o Pasco
o Wakulla - Most major retailers open within the affected areas
- The state continues to support impacted businesses and will report major closures on a case by case basis
- Activating the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program to support recovery
- Developed a hotel availability reporting tool for hotels to regularly notify the state of their lodging capabilities
o Currently 53 hotels reporting - Continue to assist the Human Services branch by filling unmet needs with private sector assistance
Food & Water
(FDACS)
- Continue to support mass feeding partners
- Food Safety Rapid Response Team is in the process of deploying assessment teams in affected regions and will assess food establishments permitted by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS)
- Assessing ice needs for feeding agencies
- Bottled water shipped to impacted areas from state warehouse:
o Leon County 6 Trailers
o Gadsden County 2 Trailers
o Dixie County 1 Trailers
o Pasco County 1 Trailers
o Wakulla County 6 Pallets
Health & Medical Services
(DOH, AHCA, APD, DCF, DEA)
- Monitoring and supporting special needs operations as requested by local Emergency Operation Centers
- Monitoring post-impact Health Care Facilities to fulfill needs as requested
- Assisting Leon County Health & Medical Services with prioritizing power restoration
o Providing generators as needed
Human Services Branch
(DBPR, DCF, FDACS, Volunteer Florida)
- Supporting county transition of shelter occupants to alternative housing
- Performing mass feedings in impacted areas
- Supporting mass care with food and water
- Distributing bulk mass care items as needed, including cleanup kits
- Food Safety Teams will conduct inspection today in 29 counties
- Baker County opened a shelter due to flooding on the St. Marys River due to a precautionary voluntary evacuation order along the river
- Tarps shipped to impacted areas from state warehouse:
o Levy County 350 - ADA cots loaned from state warehouse:
o FSU 250 Each for students displaced by power outage in a dorm
o AmeriCorps 50 Each for volunteers coming in to support - Comfort Bath Wipe Packs shipped to impacted areas from state warehouse:
o Leon County 56,000 Units - The Salvation Army is in seven counties with 23 Canteens providing feeding support at Comfort Stations and feeding locations, as well as, providing distribution of other relief supplies:
o Prepared meals (hot and cold) 6,671
o Drinks (coffee, soda, juice, water) 6,342
o Snacks (donuts, cakes, chips) 4,312
o Water (per gallon or case) 50
o Cleanup kits (per kit) 278 - Florida Baptist Disaster Relief are providing shower trailers to Wakulla County and have a field kitchen in Leon County serving surrounding counties
The American Red Cross reports the following:
Shelter/Evacuation Centers |
8 |
Shelter Overnight Stays |
51 |
Meals Served |
955 |
Snacks Served |
6,388 |
Fixed Feeding Sites |
2 |
Mobile Feeding Units |
16 |
Kitchens |
2 |
Emergency Response Vehicles |
13 |
Other Response Vehicles |
30 |
Clean Up Kits Distributed |
180 |
Mental Health Contacts |
2 |
Health Services Contacts |
18 |
Total Red Cross Workers |
273 |
Red Cross Volunteers |
248 |
Emergency Operations Centers Open |
6 |
Emergency Operations Centers Open with Red Cross |
5 |
Environmental Protection
(DEP, Water Management Districts)
- Monitoring Floridas Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network System and following up on wastewater releases
EMAC/Mutual Aid
- Coordinating with counties for in-state resources
- Continue ongoing Mutual Aid Planning and coordination
Resource Management and Communications
(DMS)
- Charging Stations have been placed at the following locations in Leon County for individuals to utilize:
o CenturyLink Locations
1544 Governors Square Blvd. Tallahassee
o T-Mobile/Metro PCS Locations
3813 N. Monroe Street Tallahassee FL 32303
1424 Capital Circle NW Tallahassee FL 32303
3111 Manah Dr Tallahassee FL 32308
N Monroe St Suite B Tallahassee FL 32303
2450 Spring Hill Dr #2 Tallahassee FL 32305
1918 W. Tennessee Tallahassee FL 32304
o Verizon Locations
Governors Square, 2014 Apalachee Pkwy, Tallahassee, FL 32301
1889 N M L King Jr Blvd, # 1, Tallahassee, FL 32303
Bradfordville Center, 6721 Thomasville Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32312o AT&T Locations
1706 W Tennessee St, Tallahassee, FL 32304
3521 Thomasville Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32309
100 N Magnolia Dr, Tallahassee, FL 32301o Sprint Locations
1584 Governors Square Blvd #14, Tallahassee, FL 32301
2264 N Monroe St #2, Tallahassee, FL 32303 -
Statewide Law Enforcement Radio System (SLERS) currently has all towers operational
o 8 towers on back-up generators
o 11 towers restored to normal operations
Military Support
(Florida National Guard)
- The Florida National Guard continues to provide logistical support at the State Logistical Response Center in Orlando and at the State Emergency Operations Center in Tallahassee
Volunteer and Donations
(Volunteer Florida)
- Partner teams continue to remove debris, establish crews for tarping and muckouts
- Continue to partner with organizations for local assessments of damage impacted areas
- Coordinating Big Bend Community Organizations Active in Disasters (COAD) response and recovery efforts
- Deploying AmeriCorps and Citizen Emergency Response Teams (CERTs) to disaster areas particularly sending above resources to the Salvation Army
- Volunteer Leon established a Leon Volunteer Reception Center
- Providing ice to residents
Recovery
- Collecting data from Initial Damage Assessments, Public Assistance, Small Businesses
- The Recovery Coordination Center is now activated
- Scheduling additional Joint Damage Assessments with FEMA
o Levy County currently scheduled for Friday, September 9
o Dixie County currently scheduled for Tuesday, September 6 - Individual Assistance:
o Taylor County has requested: Joint Individual Assistance/Preliminary Damage Assessment Team Scheduled for Tuesday, September 6th to begin
o Dixie County has requested: Joint Individual Assistance/Preliminary Damage Assessment Team Scheduled for Tuesday, September 6th to begin
o Levy County has requested: Joint Individual Assistance/Preliminary Damage Assessment Team Scheduled for Thursday, September 8th to begin
o Franklin, Wakulla and Hernando Counties have requested Individual Assistance and will be scheduled - Public Assistance:
o Taylor, Franklin and Levy County have requested Joint Public Assistance/Preliminary Damage Assessment. State is on standby working with FEMA to schedule the Joint PDAs - Vector Control:
o Governor Scott and State Surgeon General Dr. Celeste Philip held a call with all 51 mosquito control districts on Sunday, September 4th, to stress the importance of mosquito control and response following Hurricane Hermine.
The Florida Division of Emergency Management is the state agency charged with preparing for all types of disasters in Florida The Division is the states disaster liaison with federal and local agencies, and is the lead consequence management agency for the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) The Division maintains the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) in Tallahassee and the State Watch Office, the 24-hour communications and command center for response coordination Follow the Division on social media at www.facebook.com/FloridaSERT or on Twitter @FLSERT
Updates On Hurricane Hermine Recovery Efforts
09/04/16 - Tallahassee Accepts Governor Scott's Offer For More Crews To Restore Power
PUBLISHED 09/04/16 8:15 PM EASTERN
Tonight, the City of Tallahassee accepted Governor Rick Scotts offer for additional contractors from private companies to help the city restore power. These companies will remove downed trees and fallen tree limbs, as well as other debris that impact downed power lines in Tallahassee. These contractors will also provide over- line support to the debris removal crews. The contractors will begin work tomorrow morning across the city and will be paid for by state funds.
Governor Scott said, I am very appreciative that the City of Tallahassee has taken us up on our offer for the private contractors we identified to help assist in the power restoration efforts. I also want to thank the City of Tallahassee for accepting Gulf Powers assistance which was first discussed in our meeting Friday. Yesterday, I said that I hoped the city and county would take advantage of offers from private utility companies for assistance. I am glad that the city has done this. There is no doubt that we all want 100 percent power restoration. The city has committed that power will be back up by tomorrow for most of Tallahassee and I look forward to the city reaching that goal.
The city and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) are working together to ensure debris is picked up as quickly as possible. I am hopeful that they will continue to work well together on behalf of all the residents of Tallahassee. FDOT has offered to immediately begin surveying downed power lines throughout Leon County and will clearly mark them as a hazard so the public knows to stay away. FDOT has also installed 200 generators in the Tallahassee area to support the operation of traffic signals.
Additionally, the state is deploying 20 law enforcement officers from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Capitol Police and other state agencies to patrol Leon County for the next two nights to help keep our neighborhoods safe. The state is providing bottled water at distribution points in Leon, Gadsden and Dixie counties. As of tonight, the state has provided six trailers of water to Leon County, two trailers to Gadsden County and one to Dixie County. The state has also provided more than 56,000 packages of personal hygiene products for residents of Leon County. Restoring power is what our families and businesses need. I appreciate the city taking us up on our offer and we will continue to deploy more resources and more crews if the city needs it.
Tallahassee Accepts Governor Scott's Offer For More Crews To Restore Power
09/04/16 - Gov. Scott To Direct Resources To Help Restore Power To Leon County
PUBLISHED 09/04/16 6:00 PM EASTERN
Today, with more than 33,000 homes and businesses still without power in the City of Tallahassee and more than 40,000 homes and businesses without power in Leon County, Governor Scott is directing additional resources to the City of Tallahassee which will help quickly restore power.
Governor Rick Scott said There are still too many people without power in the City of Tallahassee and Leon County and as you would expect, I will not be satisfied until it is fully restored. Today, I have identified contractors from private companies that can remove downed trees and fallen tree limbs as well as other debris that impacts downed power lines in Tallahassee. These contractors can also provide over- line support to the debris removal crews.
While power restoration efforts are ongoing, I would like to do everything possible to increase the pace of power restoration. I am committed to making every resource available to assist the City of Tallahassee to fully restore power. The residents of Tallahassee deserve nothing less than 100 percent power restoration. I asked Mayor Gillum to let me know today by 8:00 pm if the city will utilize these efforts so we can quickly deploy help to impacted areas.
This afternoon, as a matter of public safety, I have directed the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to immediately begin surveying downed power lines throughout Leon County and clearly mark them as a hazard so the public knows to stay away. I am also directing FDOT to survey bus stops, school entrances, hospitals, and medical facilities and report any downed power lines that may be a public safety issue. I hope this will be helpful to the city and county. As I traveled Tallahassee, these issues are still unresolved by city and county government.
I was also informed this morning that the City of Tallahassee and Leon County have declined further cut-and-toss assistance from FDOT to clear debris such as downed trees and fallen tree limbs. I continue to hear from residents that this is needed. FDOT stands ready to continue providing this service to the City and County.
I want to thank FDOT and their many employees who have been working non-stop since Friday to clear debris such as downed trees and fallen tree limbs, install 200 generators in the Tallahassee area to support the operation of traffic signals and perform road and bridge assessments.
Gov. Scott To Direct Resources To Help Restore Power To Leon County
09/03/16 - Gov. Scott: Restoring Power for Families and Businesses Must be a Top Priority for Local Governments
Governor Rick Scott gave an update on Hurricane Hermine response and recovery efforts at the State Emergency Operations Center. Governor Scott has remained in constant communication with state and local leaders and will continue to travel to areas impacted by the storm to assess damages and meet with Floridians today.
Governor Scott said, Yesterday, I toured the impacted areas in Tallahassee, Steinhatchee and Cedar Key and met with residents who have been severely impacted by Hurricane Hermine. Today, I will continue to visit impacted neighborhoods, homes and businesses across the Big Bend.
This morning, there are more than 78,000 homes without power in Leon County and more than 11,000 homes without power in Wakulla County. It is a problem that so many people do not have power and I fully expect every city and county official to aggressively fix this. Private utility companies have offered services to support these efforts and I hope city and county officials will quickly take advantage of this to help residents. I will be asking local and county officials here in Tallahassee for an update on the progress of restoring power later today. Families and businesses need power in order to begin the recovery process and this must be a top priority.
IN THE BELOW COUNTIES, THE FOLLOWING PERCENTAGE OF PEOPLE ARE CURRENTLY WITHOUT POWER:
- Leon 57% (78,809 homes without power). Leon County is overwhelmingly leading the state in the number of homes and businesses without power.
- Wakulla 72% (11,771 homes without power)
- Alachua 6% (7,092 homes without power)
- Citrus 5% (4,726 homes without power)
- Columbia 17% (5,403 homes without power)
- Dixie 36% (3,623 homes without power)
- Franklin 2% (242 homes without power)
- Gadsden 25% (5,507 homes without power)
- Hamilton 71% (4,735 homes without power)
- Jefferson 54% (4,340 homes without power)
- Lafayette- 34% (4,149 homes without power)
- Levy 21% (5,165 homes without power)
- Madison 50% (5,235 homes without power)
- Suwannee 41% (9,007 homes without power)
- Taylor 67% (8,614 homes without power)
COUNTY BUILDINGS ARE CLOSED IN 23 COUNTIES:
ALACHUA, BAKER, BRADFORD, CLAY, COLUMBIA, DIXIE, DUVAL, GADSDEN, GILCHRIST, HAMILTON, JEFFERSON, LAFAYETTE, LEON, LEVY, LIBERTY, MADISON, PASCO, PUTNAM, ST JOHNS, SUWANNEE, TAYLOR, UNION, WAKULLA
EMERGENCY SUPPORT FUNCTIONS BY STATE EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM
Law Enforcement
(FDHSMV, FWC, FDLE)
- The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles is monitoring road conditions and has nine missions deployed to assist local sheriffs.
- The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is continuing to assist with reconnaissance and debris removal. They are also providing proactive security and safety patrol.
- The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is coordinating with local law enforcement to support communities affected by the storm and has multiple missions ongoing across coastal areas in the Big Bend.
Transportation and Public Works & Engineering
(FDOT)
- The Florida Department of Transportation is monitoring road conditions and closures. They are performing road and bridge assessments and clearance and assisting with traffic and debris removal such as fallen trees as needed.
- The state also coordinated the transfer of 200 generators for Department of Transportation warehouses in Orlando and Fort Myers to Midway for deployment in the Tallahassee area to support the operation of traffic signals.
- No interstates are closed at this time. Floridas FL511.com Traveler Information System is one of the most effective ways drivers can keep informed about the states roadways during and following any severe weather
Business, Industry & Economic Stabilization
(DEO, OIR)
- State activated Private Sector Hotline: 850-410-1403. Hotline is available for business inquiries about the storm, preparedness information and post-impact information.
- Actively monitoring the Florida Virtual Business Operations Center and Emergency Management Constellation, which allow counties to request resources and monitor updates.
- The state is also identifying major retail outlets that are open in impacted areas. In 17 impacted counties, 296 major retail outlets are open currently, including 40 in Leon County. For more information, contact your local emergency management office.
- If you need help finding your Floridas property insurance companys website and contact information, click HERE. For a list of licensed insurance agents in Florida, click HERE.
- If you have questions about insurance coverage, you can call the Department of Financial Services, Division of Consumer Services Insurance Helpline at 1-877-693-5236. You can find other hurricane season resources from the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation HERE.
Food & Water
(FDACS, DOH, DCF, DEA)
- The state is coordinating with counties impacted by the storm for U.S. Department of Agriculture allocations and monitoring power outages and flooding to ensure safety at food establishments.
- The Salvation Army has deployed 13 canteens across the state to assist in these efforts.
- The state has already sent 2 truckloads of water from the state logistics center in Orlando. There are multiple places they are giving out water for free in Tallahassee. The Mayors office put out the following information on water distribution. Distribution will be from noon to 6 p.m. today and tomorrow at the following locations: Lake Jackson Library, Woodville Library, Ft. Braden Community Center, Chaires Community Center and Miccosukee Community Center.
Health & Medical Services
(DOH, AHCA, APD, DCF, DEA)
- The Florida Department of Health is helping staffing needs at the shelter at Florida High. As power continues to be out, we expect more people to go there. DOH is also providing oxygen.
- A special needs shelters remains open in Leon county. Please visit FloridaDisaster.org/Info for more information.
- The Florida Department of Elder Affairs Area Agency on Aging offices remained open and provided services such as meals in multiple affected counties.
- We encourage residents to continue to watch local news for information on life safety alerts such as weather threats and potential boil water notices.
Environmental Protection
(DEP, Water Management Districts
- There are currently 8 state park closures. DEP is working to clear damaged areas and reopen more parks today once they are safe and secure.
- The Florida Department of Environmental Protection will continue to work with local municipalities to address any water or sewer related issues caused by Hurricane Hermine.
Energy
(DEM, Florida Public Service Commission)
- Coordinating with utility companies to assess impacts to electric, natural gas, and fuel facilities
- Monitoring and compiling updates on power outages and coordinating any necessary resources
Resource Management and Communications
(DMS)
- The Department of Management Service is currently assessing state buildings without power.
- There are currently six DMS managed facilities without power.
- The state is continuing to assess telecommunications facilities, towers and services.
- Additional generators are being deployed to sustain telecommunications currently running on backup power.
- Comcast is offering free wireless for the next few weeks. There are 2,000 hot spots available that are free for anyone, regardless of whether or not you are a customer.
- DEM is working on the following items for the City of Tallahassee: portable showers, hygiene kits which include soap and shampoo, washer/dryer stations, and recharging stations for cell phones
Military Support
(Florida National Guard)
- The Florida National Guard is in the process of mobilizing two teams of soldiers to provide logistical support at the State Logistical Response Center in Orlando and at the State Emergency Operations Center in Tallahassee.
Volunteer and Donations
(Volunteer Florida)
- Volunteer Florida is coordinating over 40 non-profits and voluntary organizations and working with partners to provide shelter support and mass care feeding to areas in need.
The Florida Division of Emergency Management is the state agency charged with preparing for all types of disasters in Florida. The Division is the states disaster liaison with federal and local agencies, and is the lead consequence management agency for the State Emergency Response Team (SERT). The Division maintains the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) in Tallahassee and the State Watch Office, the 24-hour communications and command center for response coordination. Follow the Division on social media at facebook.com/FloridaSERT or on Twitter @FLSERT.
Restoring Power for Families and Businesses Must be a Top Priority for Local Governments
09/02/16 - Gov. Scott: While Hurricane Hermine Has Passed Through Our State, Floridians Must Continue To Take Safety Precautions
Governor Rick Scott provided updates on the impacts of Hurricane Hermine in Florida. Last night, Hurricane Hermine made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane near St. Marks, Florida. Governor Scott will be touring areas impacted by the storm today.
Governor Scott said, As we all braced for impact and kept our families safe overnight, our emergency response personnel worked non-stop to respond to the needs of our communities. Today, we know there is a lot of work left to do following this storm. We will spend the coming days assessing the damage and responding to the needs of our communities and Florida families. The number one thing is to stay safe. While the storm has passed through our state, everyone must still take precautions and stay tuned to local weather stations for updates on road and weather conditions.
Life-threatening coastal flooding and rip currents will continue and we must all remain vigilant. There will be a lot of debris, including uprooted trees and fallen limbs. We expect to see downed traffic lights, road signs and power lines that must be avoided. We also expect to have significant amounts of flood water along coastal and inland areas. Do not travel on the roads until they are clear and it is safe to do so. As the hurricane moved through our state, more than 253,000 Floridians experienced power loss. This number will continue to fluctuate throughout the day. I have contacted utility companies across the state and they are working to restore power. I have also spoken with local leaders, sheriffs and first responders to make sure they have everything they need to keep their communities safe.
Heroes across our state answered the call last night to help those in need. In Pasco County, fire and rescue personnel and sheriffs deputies rescued 18 people from rising flood waters and got them to safety. In Hernando County, FWC officers rescued families from flooded areas. I want to thank our first responders for quickly rushing to the aid of their fellow Floridians and our National Guard for standing ready to assist our communities in their time of need. We are also incredibly grateful for the Red Cross, Salvation Army, Florida Baptist and the many volunteers who continue to lend a helping hand to those impacted by this storm.
Florida knows how to prepare and we also know how to lend a hand to our neighbors in need. Florida is a resilient state and we will all come together to rebuild and recover from this storm.
IN THE FOLLOWING COUNTIES, THE FOLLOWING PERCENTAGE OF PEOPLE ARE WITHOUT POWER:
Alachua 25%
Citrus 16%
Colombia 30%
Franklin 19%
Gadsden 44%
Hamilton 84%
Jefferson 62%
Lafayette- 67%
Leon 68%. (More than 70,000 homes are without power.)
Levy 13%
Madison 66%
Suwannee 53%
Taylor 66%
Wakulla 91%
SCHOOLS IN 35 COUNTIES WILL REMAIN CLOSED TODAY:
BAY, GULF, WALTON, COLUMBIA, DIXIE, FRANKLIN, GADSDEN, HAMILTON, JEFFERSON, LAFAYETTE, LEON, LIBERTY, MADISON, SUWANNEE, TAYLOR, WAKULLA, ALACHUA, BAKER, BRADFORD, CLAY, DUVAL, FLAGLER, GILCHRIST, LEVY, MARION, NASSAU, PUTNAM, ST JOHNS, UNION, CITRUS, HERNANDO, HILLSBOROUGH, PASCO, PINELLAS, MANATEE
STATE OFFICES IN 37 COUNTIES WILL REMAIN CLOSED TODAY:
ALACHUA, BAKER, BAY, BRADFORD, CALHOUN, CITRUS, CLAY, COLUMBIA, DIXIE, DUVAL, FLAGLER, FRANKLIN, GADSDEN, GILCHRIST, GULF, HAMILTON, HERNANDO, HILLSBOROUGH, JACKSON, JEFFERSON, LAFAYETTE, LEON, LEVY, LIBERTY, MADISON, MANATEE, MARION, NASSAU, PASCO, PINELLAS, PUTNAM, ST. JOHNS, SUWANNEE, TAYLOR, UNION, WAKULLA, and WALTON.
EMERGENCY SERVICES FUNCTIONS BY STATE EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM
Law Enforcement
- Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles is monitoring road and deploying teams to assist local sheriffs as needed.
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission conducted search and rescue missions for high water recovery efforts in multiple counties. They are currently assisting with debris recon and removal.
- The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is coordinating with local law enforcement to support communities affected by the storm and has multiple missions ongoing across coastal areas.
Transportation and Public Works & Engineering
- Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is monitoring road conditions and closures.
- Floridas com Traveler Information System is one of the most effective ways drivers can keep informed about the states roadways during and following any severe weather
- No interstates are closed. The Sunshine Skyway Bridge is still closed.
- There are no reported fuel supply, distribution or retail issues at this time.
Business, Industry & Economic Stabilization
- State activated Private Sector Hotline: 850-410-1403. Hotline is available for business inquiries about the storm, preparedness information and post-impact information.
- Actively monitoring the Florida Virtual Business Operations Center and EM Constellation, which allow counties to request resources and monitor updates.
- Fielded one (1) phone call inquiring how to use the above during post-disaster operations. Caller was referred to the DMS Florida Emergency Supplier Network.
- Updated ESF 18 distribution lists from emailed requests.
- Distributed SERT Flash Report No. 5 to private sector partners via GovDelivery and FLBVBEOC
- If you need help finding your Floridas property insurance companys website and contact information, click HERE. For a list of licensed insurance agents in Florida, click HERE.
- If you have questions about insurance coverage, you can call the Department of Financial Services, Division of Consumer Services Insurance Helpline at 1-877-693-5236. You can find other hurricane season resources from the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation HERE.
National Guard
- Currently have 200 soldiers on state active duty in support of Hurricane Hermine.
- 6,000 total guardsmen ready.
- High wheeled vehicles in preparation for requests.
- Early this morning, the Florida National Guard deployed reconnaissance teams beginning in Crystal River and working their way up the coast doing search and rescue.
Food & Water
- The state is reaching out to counties impacted by the storm for U.S. Department of Agriculture allocations and monitoring power outages and flooding to ensure safety at food establishments.
- The Salvation Army has deployed 13 canteens across the state to assist in these efforts.
Health & Medical Services
- Monitoring local special needs shelters across the state and supporting local healthcare facilities as needed.
Environmental Protection
- There are currently 34 state park closures.
AMERICAN RED CROSS ACTIONS
- Validating shelter numbers and overnight shelter populations
- Conducting feeding operations in shelters
- Accessing community needs for possible mobile feeding, tarps & clean up items
- Providing intel throughout the day to FDEM and staffing county EOCs, as necessary
- Initiating damage assessments and directing public to Red Cross safety apps (post storm)
The Florida Division of Emergency Management is the state agency charged with preparing for all types of disasters in Florida. The Division is the states disaster liaison with federal and local agencies, and is the lead consequence management agency for the State Emergency Response Team (SERT). The Division maintains the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) in Tallahassee and the State Watch Office, the 24-hour communications and command center for response coordination. Follow the Division on social media at facebook.com/FloridaSERT or on Twitter @FLSERT.
09/01/16 - Governor Scott: Hurricane Hermine Hours Away From FL- Get Ready Now
This afternoon, data from the Air Force Reserve hurricane hunter said that maximum winds have increased to 75 miles per hour, making Hurricane Hermine the first hurricane to hit Florida in 11 years. Governor Scott is urging all Florida residents and visitors to follow their safety plans and be ready for landfall. Florida has already started to see severe affects and landfall is expected around midnight.
Governor Scott said, This afternoon I went to Wakulla County and met with Sheriff Charlie Creel, St. Marks Mayor Chuck Shields and other local leaders. They are already experiencing high water levels, flooding and rain, and this will continue to spread up and across the state. Hurricane Hermine is strengthening fast and it will impact the majority of our state. That is why everyone must be alert and follow their safety plans. If you are in an evacuation zone, evacuate now. There are around 20 shelters open in our state that you can go to immediately.
The biggest threats to our state are storm surge, strong wind, heavy rain, flooding and tornadoes. There are many things Floridians can do to protect themselves from these storm impacts. Pay attention to weather alerts, your local news, and your local elected officials. Make sure your cell phone has emergency alerts enabled. Remember not to drive or walk through standing water. Watch out for flooded roads and road closures. First responders cannot get in to rescue those in need in the middle of the storm. If you need information about evacuation zones or what other safety tips you should follow, please visit FloridaDisaster.org/info.
The Florida National Guard has more than 6,000 personnel ready to mobilize. FWC has special operations groups standing by with boats and search and rescue equipment to rescue people. Both the National Guard and FWC have pre-positioned equipment across the state to immediately respond. I have also been in touch with our utility companies and they have already prepositioned resources to respond.
These preparations are important, but it is still up to every Floridian to do their part to make sure they and their families are ready. For the first time in over a decade, Florida is facing a hurricane. Hurricane Hermine is going to be here in the next few hours and everyone must take this seriously. Please remember that while we can rebuild your home or your business, we cannot rebuild the loss of life.
The NHC has designated the system as Hurricane Hermine. Hurricane Hermine has sustained winds of 75 mph and is projected to make landfall in Florida tonight. A hurricane warning is in effect for coastal and inland areas between Gulf County and Dixie County. A tropical storm warning is in effect for 30 counties across North and Central Florida. A storm surge warning is in effect for coastal areas between Manatee County and Franklin County.
STATE OFFICE CLOSURES FOR FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2:
As of now, state offices will be closed in the following 37 counties:
ALACHUA, BAKER, BAY, BRADFORD, CALHOUN, CITRUS, CLAY, COLUMBIA, DIXIE, DUVAL, FLAGLER, FRANKLIN, GADSDEN, GILCHRIST, GULF, HAMILTON, HERNANDO, HILLSBOROUGH, JACKSON, JEFFERSON, LAFAYETTE, LEON, LEVY, LIBERTY, MADISON, MANATEE, MARION, NASSAU, PASCO, PINELLAS, PUTNAM, ST. JOHNS, SUWANNEE, TAYLOR, UNION, WAKULLA, and WALTON.
EVACUATION INFORMATION
The following counties have areas with mandatory evacuations. Please call the local emergency operations center with any questions:
- Dixie County Horseshoe Beach, Suwanee, Jena
- Dixie Emergency Management Office 352-498-1240
- Franklin County Apalachicola, east Point, Carrabelle, Lanark, St. George Island, Alligator and Bald Point, Dog Island, Rio Visa
- Franklin Emergency Management Office 850-653-8977
- Taylor County Steinhatchee, Keaton Beach, Cedar Island, Dark Island, Dekle, Spring Warrior, Nutall Rise, Ecofiania
- Taylor Emergency Management Office 850-838-3575
- Wakulla County St. Marks, Panacea, Spring Medart
- Wakulla Emergency Management Office 850-745-7200
- Levy County Cedar Key, Yankeetown, Fanning Springs, Fowlers Bluff, Otter Creek, Gulf Hammock, Rosewood and the West Side of Inglis
- Levy Emergency Management Office 352-486-5213
The following counties have areas with voluntary evacuations. Please call the local emergency operations center with any questions:
- Gulf Port St. Joe, St. Joe Beach, Beacon Hill, Simmons Bayou, St. Joe Peninsula and Indian Pass
- Gulf Emergency Management Office 850-229-9110
- Jefferson Fanlew Community
- Jefferson Emergency Management Office 850-342-0211
EMERGENCY SERVICES FUNCTIONS BY STATE EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM
Transportation and Public Works & Engineering
- Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) district operations preparing maintenance yards; testing and inventorying equipment; placing emergency crews on standby; reviewing emergency plans; and preparing construction zones; and monitoring flood prone areas
- S. Army Corps of Engineers monitoring; securing key culvert structures on Lake Okeechobee and monitoring marine traffic
- Water Management Districts monitoring; preparing staff and vehicles; monitoring water levels and adjusting discharges as needed
- Floridas com Traveler Information System is one of the most effective ways drivers can keep informed about the states roadways during and following any severe weather
Firefighting and Search & Rescue
- State is coordinating with the Fire Chief Association
- State is coordinating Ambulance Strike Teams
- Preparing for widespread response (flooding, possible high winds)
Health & Medical Services
- Monitoring local special needs shelters across the state
Law Enforcement
- State is coordinating with the Florida Sheriffs Association to ensure resources such as personnel and equipment are ready to deploy
- Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles is monitoring road and assisting local sheriffs if needed. Currently, the Skyway Bridge, Saint George Island Bridge and Apalachicola Bay Bridge are closed.
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has special operations groups standing by with boats and search and rescue equipment if needed. They will also be activated in the morning to assist with debris removal.
- The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is monitoring the storm and identifying assets and resources.
Business, Industry & Economic Stabilization
- State activated Private Sector Hotline: 850-410-1403. Hotline is available for business inquiries about the storm, preparedness information and post-impact information.
National Guard
- Currently have 200 soldiers on state active duty in support of Hurricane Hermine.
- 6,000 total guardsmen ready.
- High wheeled vehicles in preparation for requests.
Environmental Protection
- There are currently 29 state park closures.
The Florida Division of Emergency Management is the state agency charged with preparing for all types of disasters in Florida. The Division is the states disaster liaison with federal and local agencies, and is the lead consequence management agency for the State Emergency Response Team (SERT). The Division maintains the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) in Tallahassee and the State Watch Office, the 24-hour communications and command center for response coordination. Follow the Division on social media at Facebook.com/FloridaSERT or on Twitter @FLSERT.
Hurricane Hermine Hours Away From FL- Get Ready Now
09/01/16 - Governor Scott: We Must Prepare For Possible Hurricane; Effects Could Be Life Threatening
Following a call with The National Hurricane Center, Governor Scott is urging all residents and visitors from Tampa Bay to Pensacola to get prepared now before Tropical Storm Hermine makes landfall. Tropical Storm Hermine is expected to become a hurricane before landfall. Florida expects to start seeing severe affects in the state around 6:00pm and landfall is expected around 2:00am. Hurricane and tropical storm warnings are ongoing along Floridas Gulf Coast from Charlotte County to Bay County.
Governor Rick Scott said, This storm has the potential to be life-threatening if residents and visitors don't follow proper precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones. This storm will impact the majority of our state. Right now, we are concerned about storm surge in our coastal communities, wind, rain and tornadoes. We can expect storm surges beginning this afternoon along the Nature Coast and the Big Bend, wind speeds up to 75 mph, rainfall of up to 15 inches in some areas and tornados impacting Central and North Florida.
Evacuations are occurring in many counties and if you live in an area where mandatory evacuations are occurring, you need to evacuate now. If you dont know your evacuation zone, please visit www.floridadisaster.org/publicmapping/ or call 850-921-0217. If you are directed to evacuate and don't, you're risking not only your life and your families lives, but the lives of those who are there to save you.
If you have a cell phone, charge it and keep it available all night. The National Weather Service sends out alerts for tornadoes, flash floods and hurricane alerts which can save your life. Do not ignore these messages and please stay alert to all warnings and pay attention to your local news.
Anyone in the storms path must have ready the resources your families need such as water, flashlights, batteries and medicine. Power could be out for days or even weeks. That is why you have to be prepared with all of these resources.
I have been in constant communication with sheriffs and local officials to ensure they have everything they need to help keep their families and visitors safe. Our most important goal is to protect our families, visitors and communities and we continue to hope for the best, even as we prepare for the worst. We will continue to monitor this storm and will keep Floridians updated on any developments.
Counties who will be most affected by storm surge include Manatee, Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando, Citrus, Levy, Gilchrist, Dixie, Taylor, Wakulla, and Franklin counties. Currently, at least 20 counties have closed their schools. These lists continue to change and Florida families should watch their local news for updates. Tornado watches are expected to go into affect later this afternoon.
The following counties have areas with mandatory evacuations. Please call the local emergency operations center with any questions:
- Dixie County - Horseshoe Beach, Suwanee, Jena
- Dixie Emergency Management Office - 352-498-1240
- Franklin County - Apalachicola, east Point, Carrabelle, Lanark, St. George Island, Alligator and Bald Point, Dog Island, Rio Visa
- Franklin Emergency Management Office - 850-653-8977
- Taylor County - Steinhatchee, Keaton Beach, Cedar Island, Dark Island, Dekle, Spring Warrior, Nutall Rise, Ecofiania
- Taylor Emergency Management Office - 850-838-3575
- Wakulla County - St. Marks, Panacea, Spring Medart
- Wakulla Emergency Management Office - 850-745-7200
- Levy County - Cedar Key, Yankeetown, Fanning Springs, Fowlers Bluff, Otter Creek, Gulf Hammock, Rosewood and the West Side of Inglis
- Levy Emergency Management Office - 352-486-5213
The following counties have areas with voluntary evacuations. Please call the local emergency operations center with any questions:
- Gulf - Port St. Joe, St. Joe Beach, Beacon Hill, Simmons Bayou, St. Joe Peninsula and Indian Pass
- Gulf Emergency Management Office - 850-229-9110
- Walton - Santa Rosa Beach, Miramar Beach, Sand Destin, Grayton Beach, Inlet Beach
- Walton Emergency Management Office - 850-892-806
- Jefferson - Fanlew Community
- Jefferson Emergency Management Office - 850-342-0211
The NHC has designated the system as Tropical Storm Hermine. Tropical Storm Hermine has sustained winds of 70 mph and is projected to make landfall in Florida late Thursday night. Additional strengthening of this storm is expected to occur throughout the day today. A hurricane warning is in effect for coastal and inland areas between Gulf County and Dixie County. A tropical storm warning is in effect for 30 counties across North and Central Florida. A storm surge warning is in effect for coastal areas between Manatee County and Franklin County.
The Florida Division of Emergency Management is the state agency charged with preparing for all types of disasters in Florida. The Division is the state's disaster liaison with federal and local agencies, and is the lead consequence management agency for the State Emergency Response Team (SERT). The Division maintains the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) in Tallahassee and the State Watch Office, the 24-hour communications and command center for response coordination. Follow the Division on social media at facebook.com/FloridaSERT or on Twitter @FLSERT.
Governor Scott: We Must Prepare For Possible Hurricane; Effects Could Be Life Threatening
08/31/16 - Governor Scott: As Tropical Storm Hermine Approaches Florida, Residents Must Be Prepared
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) upgraded Tropical Depression 9 to Tropical Storm Hermine. Governor Rick Scott today signed an additional executive order that expands the state of emergency to include nine new counties. This is in addition to the 42 counties announced earlier today. The new counties include: Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, Holmes, Washington, Manatee, Osceola and Sarasota. The Florida Division of Emergency Management continues to actively monitor Tropical Storm Hermine and urges everyone in Florida to remain vigilant and take all necessary precautions as it moves toward the Gulf Coast. The State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) remains activated to Level 2. To view Executive Order 16-206, click HERE.
Governor Scott said, We are in constant communication with local communities and we stand ready to respond to any impacts, especially as we anticipate that the storm could become a hurricane before it reaches landfall tomorrow. As we brace for this storm to impact Florida, I will be at the SEOC in Tallahassee tomorrow to continue to closely monitor it.
"At this time, we expect storm surge of upwards of six feet in some parts of our state. We also anticipate total rainfall amounts of five to 10 inches of over portions of Northwest Florida and isolated tornadoes. I have spent the day traveling the state reminding Floridians of the importance of being prepared for bad weather. Now that Tropical Storm Hermine is approaching our state, it is even more important for all Floridians to get a plan and prepare for severe weather. If you dont have a plan, please visit FLGetAPlan.com. We will provide regular updates on this storm and the states preparedness efforts."
On Thursday, Governor Scott will monitor Tropical Strom Hermine from the State Emergency Operations Center in Tallahassee. Governor Scott will participate in a weather briefing call with the National Hurricane Center at 11:15 a.m. Immediately following this call, Governor Scott will provide an update to press at the SEOC.
Governor Scott: As Tropical Storm Hermine Approaches Florida, Residents Must Be Prepared
08/31/16 - Governor Scott: As Tropical Storm Hermine Approaches Florida, Residents Must Be Prepared
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) upgraded Tropical Depression 9 to Tropical Storm Hermine. Governor Rick Scott today signed an additional executive order that expands the state of emergency to include nine new counties. This is in addition to the 42 counties announced earlier today. The new counties include: Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, Holmes, Washington, Manatee, Osceola and Sarasota. The Florida Division of Emergency Management continues to actively monitor Tropical Storm Hermine and urges everyone in Florida to remain vigilant and take all necessary precautions as it moves toward the Gulf Coast. The State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) remains activated to Level 2. To view Executive Order 16-206, click HERE.
Governor Scott said, We are in constant communication with local communities and we stand ready to respond to any impacts, especially as we anticipate that the storm could become a hurricane before it reaches landfall tomorrow. As we brace for this storm to impact Florida, I will be at the SEOC in Tallahassee tomorrow to continue to closely monitor it.
"At this time, we expect storm surge of upwards of six feet in some parts of our state. We also anticipate total rainfall amounts of five to 10 inches of over portions of Northwest Florida and isolated tornadoes. I have spent the day traveling the state reminding Floridians of the importance of being prepared for bad weather. Now that Tropical Storm Hermine is approaching our state, it is even more important for all Floridians to get a plan and prepare for severe weather. If you dont have a plan, please visit FLGetAPlan.com. We will provide regular updates on this storm and the states preparedness efforts."
On Thursday, Governor Scott will monitor Tropical Strom Hermine from the State Emergency Operations Center in Tallahassee. Governor Scott will participate in a weather briefing call with the National Hurricane Center at 11:15 a.m. Immediately following this call, Governor Scott will provide an update to press at the SEOC.
Governor Scott: As Tropical Storm Hermine Approaches Florida, Residents Must Be Prepared
08/31/16 - Governor Scott Declares a State of Emergency in Florida in Preparation for Tropical Depression Nine
Governor Rick Scott issued Executive Order 16-205 declaring a state of emergency in 42 counties within the state of Florida in preparation for Tropical Depression Nine. To view Executive Order 16-205, click HERE.
Governor Scott said, Last night, hurricane and tropical storm watches were issued along Floridas Gulf Coast from Pasco County to Gulf County. We also learned that the National Hurricane Center expects Tropical Depression Nine to become a Tropical Storm sometime today. It is crucial that every Floridian has a plan in place to ensure their families, homes and businesses are fully prepared. Floridians can make their own plan at FLGetaPlan.com. I have been closely monitoring this storms development and our emergency management officials have been working hard to make sure we are ready to respond to any potential impacts. By declaring a state of emergency in advance of this storm, we are ensuring that state, regional and local agencies can work together to meet the needs of our communities. We will continue to do all we can to keep our families and visitors safe and informed as this storm approaches our state.
Governor Scott Declares a State of Emergency in Florida in Preparation for Tropical Depression Nine
08/30/16 - Gov. Scott to Visit Tampa in Preparation for Tropical Depression
After speaking with the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) regarding Tropical Depression 9, Governor Rick Scott will be visiting Tampas Emergency Operations Center to be briefed on the storms potential impacts to the area. This morning, the State Emergency Operations Center elevated its status to Level Two in preparation for potential impacts from Tropical Depression 9. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is forecasting the storm to enter the Big Bend, Nature Coast and the Tampa Bay areas within the next 48 hours. The NHC expects the storm to strengthen to a tropical storm today. The system will have the potential to produce widespread coastal and inland flooding, storm surge and gusty winds along the Florida Gulf Coast. In addition, a strong threat of rip currents exists along Atlantic and Gulf Coast beaches and the risk may remain into the weekend. A media availability with Governor Scott on the storms potential impact will be at 5:00pm tonight at the Hillsborough County Emergency Operations Center, 2711 E. Hanna Ave. Tampa, FL 33610.
Governor Scott said, Later today I will be at the Emergency Operations Center in Tampa to continue to monitor the storm since this area might have tropical storm impacts beginning Thursday. Florida families on the Gulf Coast and in the Tampa Bay Area need to prepare for five to ten inches of heavy rainfall as well as potential tornados. Floridians should always remember to never drive on flooded roadways, seek shelter in the event of severe weather and always have a plan in place to keep your family safe. We must also dump standing water around homes and businesses to eliminate breeding grounds for mosquitoes since we are aggressively fighting the Zika virus in our state. We will continue to keep all Floridians updated as we get new information.
FDEM Director Bryan Koon said, Whether this is your first tropical storm or youre a seasoned veteran of past hurricanes, you need to take this storm seriously and be prepared for the very real threats it could produce. Make sure your disaster supply kit is fully stocked and you have a safety plan for yourself, your family and for your workplace or business.
Potential impacts include:
- Rainfall totals of 5 to 10 inches are possible over the Florida Peninsula through Thursday.
- Strong, life-threatening rip currents and other coastal hazards are possible along all East Coast and Gulf Coast beaches throughout week.
- Specific Florida Gulf Coast impacts associated with Tropical Depression 9 could include damaging winds, storm surge, flooding and tornadoes.
- Gulf Coast impacts to Florida will likely begin Wednesday night and last through Friday.
- Tropical storm watches for Florida may be issued later this afternoon.
- Hurricane Gaston and Tropical Depression 8 do not pose a threat to Florida.
If severe weather is forecast in your area, be sure to follow these important safety tips:
- Ensure your NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio is on and programmed for your area or stay tuned to a trusted local media outlet for the most current weather situation. Ensure your disaster supply kit is prepared and heed all instructions from local officials.
- Know what you would do in the event of a severe thunderstorm or tornado watch or warning. If a tornado warning is issued for your area, seek shelter immediately in an interior room, away from windows.
- NEVER drive through flooded roadways as road beds may be washed out under flood waters, and just one foot of fast-moving flood water can move most cars off the road.
- If thunder roars, go indoors. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning and should seek shelter.
If flooding is likely in your area, you should:
- If you see a flooded roadway, remember the phrase Turn Around, Dont Drown and always take your time when traveling.
- Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
- Be aware of stream, drainage channels, canals and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with little or no warning.
The SEOC is the operational and logistical coordination headquarters for the State Emergency Response Team and is located in Tallahassee. The SEOC has three activation levels, with Level 1 being the highest:
- Level 3: Normal daily active monitoring
- Level 2: Activation of mission-specific emergency support and planning functions
- Level 1: Full activation of all emergency support functions
For more information on severe weather resources, or to create an emergency plan for your family, please visit FLGetAPlan.com.
Gov. Scott to Visit Tampa Today in Preparation for Tropical Depression
08/26/16 - Gov Scott: As Weekend Approaches, Continue To Monitor Weather
Governor Rick Scott spoke with the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) and the Florida Department of State (DOS) to get an update on potential storm impacts. FDEM is continuing to actively monitor a developing storm system as it approaches the Florida Straits, and are urging everyone in Florida to remain vigilant as it moves toward the Gulf of Mexico. FDEM has not elevated the activation level of the State Emergency Operations Center, or activated the State Emergency Response Team but stands ready. Though developing more slowly than first anticipated, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) expects conditions will become more favorable for intensification as the storm moves into the Gulf of Mexico.
Governor Scott said, As the weekend approaches it is very important that Florida families and businesses prepare for potential storm impacts. The storm is disorganized and its still very unclear on where impacts to our state might be. We will continue to closely monitor the storm over the weekend and since we anticipate heavy rain, remember to dump standing water as we continue to fight Zika. It is crucial to make a plan and have three days of food and water as well as flashlights, batteries and medicine available. Weather in our state can change very quickly and Floridians must stay alert and always have a plan. Also, with the primary election on Tuesday, it is crucial that everyone goes out to vote early, regardless of weather.
The NHC has designated the developing system as Invest 99L, and estimates it to have a 30-percent chance of cyclone formation in the next 48 hours and a 60-percent chance of cyclone formation within the next five days. The NHC does not anticipate any direct impacts to Florida earlier than Saturday night or during the early hours Sunday.
As Weekend Approaches, Continue To Monitor Weather
08/25/16 - Gov Scott: Floridians Should Prepare For Potential Storm Impact
Governor Rick Scott spoke with the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) and the Florida Department of State (DOS) on potential storm impacts. FDEM is actively monitoring a low pressure area associated with a tropical wave in the Western Atlantic Ocean. FDEM has not yet elevated the activation level of the State Emergency Operations Center, but stands ready to do so if the storm threatens Florida. Portions of South and Central Florida may be at risk for heavy rainfall, potential flooding and rip currents late this weekend through early next week.
Governor Scott said, In Florida, we must always be prepared for a storm before landfall. Now is the time to gather supplies and ensure our families, homes and businesses are fully prepared for any potential storm impact. With the threat of a developing storm, we must continue to dump standing water since we are also working to combat the Zika virus. With the primary elections on Tuesday, I also encourage all Floridians to take advantage of early voting opportunities in case there is a storm in our state next week. This storm should serve as a reminder for everyone to get a plan if they dont already have one.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is referring to the developing storm as Invest 99L, and estimates it to have a 40 percent chance of cyclone formation in the next 48 hours and a 70 percent chance of cyclone formation within the next five days. The NHC does not anticipate any direct impacts to Florida prior to the the early morning hours of Sunday, August 28th.