The brooding storm over the Gulf of Mexico known as Hurricane Milton continues to grow more worrisome as of Monday afternoon, with the latest estimates placing it as a Category 5 hurricane with winds reaching 160 miles per hour. The storm is projected to move east across Florida, bringing heavy winds and flooding to much of the central part of the state.
Flagler County is among the areas which may be hit especially hard by Hurricane Milton. One particularly sobering potential effect facing Flagler is up to a foot of rain, per the most recent estimates from the county government.
“All residents and businesses should be using the rest of today to finalize preparation for hurricane force winds as early as Wednesday morning,” said Flagler County Emergency Management Director Jonathan Lord. “Additionally, over the next week we can also expect upwards of a foot of rain.”
A state of emergency has been declared for 51 counties in Florida, with Flagler among them. The surrounding area, including Volusia, St. Johns, Putnam, Seminole, and Lake counties are also under the order. Palm Coast Mayor David Alfin signed a proclamation on Monday declaring a local state of emergency, opening a smoother pathway for federal and state disaster resources.
Flagler Schools have announced the closure of all schools from Wednesday through Friday in anticipation of Hurricane Milton. Outdoor activities on Tuesday are cancelled, with only extended day remaining open.
As of Monday afternoon there are no evacuation orders in effect for Flagler County. Several areas in the county, however, can expect a firm chance of being issued the order. These include the entirety of coastal Flagler County, John Anderson Highway, Palm Drive, Bulow RV Park, Polo Club West, Sweetbottom Plantation, Lambert Ave, Marina Del Palm, Palm Coast Plantation, and Princess Place Preserve.
Four locations are being advertised for sandbag collection, with residents needing to bring a shovel for self-serve.
