Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan has flagged flooding and storm surge as the main threats from Hurricane Milton, expected to hit from Wednesday evening into Thursday morning. A Hurricane Watch is in effect for Duval County, anticipating tropical storm force winds and substantial rainfall that could lead to significant flooding in various neighborhoods. Residents are urged to finalize preparations and seek higher ground if necessary.
Mayor Donna Deegan of Jacksonville has identified flooding and storm surge as the primary concerns associated with Hurricane Milton, which is forecasted to affect the region from Wednesday evening into Thursday morning. Unlike Hurricane Helene, where wind damage was a significant concern, Deegan emphasized the significant threat posed by flooding due to already saturated grounds and elevated river levels. Duval County has been placed under a Hurricane Watch as of Monday evening. During a recent press briefing, the Mayor indicated that tropical storm force winds between 40 to 50 mph, with gusts reaching up to 70 mph, are anticipated. Areas such as the beaches, the Intracoastal waterway along the St. Johns River, and locations with high-profile buildings may experience even stronger sustained winds. The expected rainfall totals are alarming, with estimates ranging from 4 to 10 inches across different parts of the city, resulting in potential flooding ranging from 2 to 4 feet in neighborhoods including Ortega, Riverside, San Marco, Southampton, Downtown, and along the Trout River, Ribault River, and Moncrief Creek. Deegan has urged residents to finalize their hurricane preparedness by Tuesday evening and advocated for public safety by advising community members to refrain from road travel on Wednesday. Furthermore, she encouraged individuals residing in flood-prone areas to consider relocating to higher ground or to city shelters. As part of the response, the Mayor announced the declaration of a local state of emergency effective Tuesday at 8 a.m., coinciding with the full activation of the Emergency Operations Center. The Jacksonville Electric Authority (JEA) has confirmed that its crews are ready to respond, yet warned that restoration efforts may take longer due to the widespread impact across Florida. City offices and Duval County Public Schools will be closed from Wednesday through Friday, with public transport operations continuing as long as it remains safe. Residents are advised to secure any debris around their homes prior to the storm and may reach out to city services by calling 630-CITY or downloading the JaxREADY application.
Hurricane Milton is a significant weather event anticipated to impact Jacksonville, Florida. The storm has intensified into a Category 5 hurricane with maximum winds of 180 mph. This upcoming hurricane poses a serious threat particularly in terms of flooding and storm surge, with forecasts indicating heavy rain and strong winds. The local government has preemptively started preparations, including the establishment of emergency services and public safety announcements. This context underscores the urgency of preparations for potential disruptions to daily life in the city, such as school closures and effects on power and water services.
In conclusion, Jacksonville residents are urged to prepare comprehensively for Hurricane Milton, focusing primarily on flood readiness and safety protocols as the area braces for significant rainfall and high winds. Authorities have implemented necessary measures including emergency declarations, public safety advisories, and operational adjustments to ensure the community can respond effectively to the impending hurricane. It is critical for residents to remain informed and take appropriate actions to safeguard themselves and their property during this urgent situation.
Original Source: www.news4jax.com
