With Hurricane Milton approaching Central Florida, it’s essential to be prepared and stay informed to ensure the safety and well-being of you and your family. The hurricane is expected to bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, and dangerous storm surges. This blog post provides crucial information and guidance to help you stay safe during the hurricane.
Current Forecast for Hurricane Milton
According to the National Weather Service, Hurricane Milton is expected to impact Central Florida within the next 48-72 hours, bringing strong winds, heavy rain, and potential flooding. The latest forecasts show that the storm could pass directly over Orlando, with winds reaching up to 100 mph in some areas. Stay tuned to your local weather station and the NWS for up-to-date forecasts.
How to Prepare for the Hurricane
It’s essential to take action now, so you and your loved ones are ready before the hurricane makes landfall. Here’s what you can do:
- Stock Up on Essentials:
The City of Orlando suggests having at least three days' worth of non-perishable food, water, and medication for each family member. Make sure to have batteries, flashlights, and a first-aid kit handy. Also, don’t forget about your pets—have food, water, and any medications they might need ready.
- Protect Your Home:
To reduce the risk of damage, bring in outdoor furniture, secure windows with plywood, and make sure any loose items around your property are safely stored. In addition, don’t forget to pick up sandbags from your local distribution sites to help prevent flooding around your home. Sandbags are available at designated locations throughout Orlando—check the City of Orlando’s website or contact Orange County Emergency Services for sandbag pickup locations and times.
- Create an Emergency Plan:
Discuss a family emergency plan ahead of time, including where to go in case of evacuation and how to communicate if cell services go down. FEMA recommends having an out-of-state contact as a go-between in case you’re unable to reach local family or friends. You can find a list of emergency shelters on the City of Orlando or Florida Division of Emergency Management websites.
During the Storm
Once Hurricane Milton arrives, stay indoors and avoid going outside until the storm has completely passed. Here are a few tips to stay safe:
- Stay Informed: Use a battery-powered or hand-crank radio to listen to weather updates from the National Weather Service or the Central Florida Emergency Management. Cell towers may go down, so this will be a reliable way to receive critical information. You can also sign up for alerts through the City of Orlando’s Alert Orlando system for real-time updates and emergency notifications via text, email, or voice messages.
- Power Outages: Be prepared for power outages. If you lose power, avoid using candles due to fire hazards—flashlights are a safer option. Consider unplugging electronics to protect them from power surges when the electricity comes back on. Stay informed about power restoration efforts by following updates from the Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC).
- Flooding Precautions: Orlando and surrounding areas can experience flash flooding. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters, as even six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet, and just a foot of water can carry away a vehicle. Check the Florida Division of Emergency Management for information on flood risks and safety measures.
After the Storm
When it’s safe to go outside, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Inspect Your Home for Damage: Be cautious when checking for damage, and stay away from downed power lines or flooded areas. Report any damage to your home to your insurance company immediately.
- Clean Up Safely: If you need to clear debris, wear protective gear such as gloves and sturdy boots to avoid injury. The City of Orlando will issue guidance on how to handle waste removal following the storm—check their website for updates.
- Help Your Neighbors: If it’s safe, check on elderly neighbors or anyone who may need assistance. Community support is crucial in times like these.
Key Resources for Orlando Residents
As Hurricane Milton approaches, the best way to stay safe is to be prepared and stay informed. Keep an eye on reliable sources, check your emergency supplies, and look out for one another. Together, we can weather the storm.
If you have any questions or need additional resources, don’t hesitate to contact the City of Orlando or your local emergency management office. Our ALIGN agents are also here to help! If you or someone you know needs assistance during the storm, please contact us at 407-565-9359 for support and guidance. Stay safe, Central Florida!
