As Hurricane Helene strengthens off the coast of Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis has issued updates on the state's preparedness activities. In a recent appearance in Tampa alongside Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie, DeSantis highlighted the readiness of utility personnel for potential post-storm power outages and discussed the significance of federal resources following FEMA's approval of the state's pre-landfall disaster declaration request.
This federal assistance, as specified by Governor DeSantis' office, includes personnel, equipment, supplies, and funding for emergency protective measures for the 41 counties included in Executive Order 24-208. Furthermore to address the growing threat, Executive Order 24-209 was issued, expanding state of emergency declarations to 61 counties. This enables state officials to streamline the deployment of critical resources.
Floridians in the storm’s anticipated path face voluntary and mandatory evacuation orders. Authorities urge residents to act swiftly if under a mandatory order, with a comprehensive list of affected counties accessible at FloridaDisaster.org/EvacuationOrders. For those seeking refuge, the Big Bend region has established a helpline at (800) 729-3413, where FDEM staff are managing shelter arrangements. The State Assistance Information Line (SAIL), available at (800) 342-3557, offers further assistance and supports multiple languages including English, Spanish, and Haitian-Creole.
With Helene currently packing winds of 80 mph, it is expected to traverse the eastern Gulf of Mexico before making landfall along the Florida Big Bend coast by Thursday evening, according to the information given by the Governor's statement. The storm's intensity, is projected to escalate further, prompting officials to predict that Helene will hit as a major hurricane. Residents in the path are advised to monitor updates closely and adhere to safety guidelines issued by local authorities.
