Broward County’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains at a Level 3 activation as officials closely monitor the progress of Hurricane Milton, currently situated in the southwestern Gulf of Mexico.
As of Monday morning, the National Hurricane Center said Milton was moving “erratically” through the Gulf of Mexico and rapidly gaining strength, jumping to major storm status overnight.
Now, with maximum sustained winds of 150 mph, Milton is a massive Category 4 storm.
8:05 AM CDT Monday Update: Milton rapidly intensifies into a category 4 hurricane. The maximum sustained winds have now increased to 150 mph (240 km/h) and the minimum pressure has fallen to 940 mb. pic.twitter.com/wlJXbB5lkr
— National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) October 7, 2024
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Broward, the worst-case scenario would see up to 8 inches of rain through Wednesday, with a 10% chance of exceeding that total. In a more likely scenario, the area could receive 5-6 inches of rain, but there is still a moderate risk of flooding on Monday.
Current estimates give Broward County a 34% probability of experiencing sustained-force winds and a 9% chance of hurricane-force gusts. The hurricane’s impact on South Florida is expected between Tuesday and Wednesday, though specifics are still uncertain.
Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) announced they plan to remain open on Monday, with further decisions about closures to be made as conditions develop. Hurricane Milton is projected to approach Florida’s west coast by midweek.
In response to the hurricane, Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-215, expanding the state of emergency to 51 counties. For preparedness tips and updates, residents can visit FloridaDisaster.org/Guide or find local resources at FloridaDisaster.org/Counties.
Statewide Preparedness Underway
Florida’s Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) elevated the State Emergency Operations Center to Level 1, following the same level of activation used during Hurricane Helene. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and other agencies are ensuring all necessary equipment is operational, including resources like airboats, high-water vehicles, and ATVs, should they be needed for rescue operations.
The Florida Department of Health (DOH) has already deployed over 200 emergency vehicles along the I-4 corridor, while the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has prepped specialized equipment, including airboats and shallow draft boats, for rapid deployment. Health and human services agencies are also coordinating with local healthcare providers to monitor needs, manage patient transfers, and ensure resources are in place.
Road and Infrastructure Preparations
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is taking steps to mitigate flooding risks on major roadways and bridges. Crews are clearing drainage systems and pre-positioning equipment such as pumps. High mast lighting and construction projects are being secured, and the state’s transportation network—including seaports, airports, and railroads—are on standby for potential disruptions.
As Hurricane Milton continues to develop, officials urge Floridians to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.
