Heavy Rain and Hurricane Milton Prompt Emergency Declarations Across South Florida
FORT LAUDERDALE — South Florida is bracing for severe weather as Hurricane Milton strengthens and is expected to bring periods of heavy rain on Sunday. Some local areas are already experiencing flooding conditions and are taking swift action to prepare for potential impacts.
Local States of Emergency Declared
In response to Hurricane Milton, multiple cities across South Florida have begun to declare states of emergency.
Miami
Miami Mayor Francis Suarez has issued a state of emergency, anticipating significant effects from the hurricane. Residents and city services have been urged to prepare for heavy rainfall.
Hollywood
The City of Hollywood has followed suit and declared a state of emergency as weather conditions are expected to worsen this Sunday. To assist residents, the city announced the waiver of parking fees in city-operated garages, starting at 8 a.m. on Sunday.
- Garfield Garage, 300 Connecticut St.
- Nebraska Garage, 327 Nebraska St.
- Van Buren Garage, 251 S. 20th Ave.
- Radius Garage, 251 N. 19th Ave.
Hollywood is also providing free sandbags to residents at several locations on a first-come, first-served basis:
- Jefferson Park, 1501 Jefferson St.
- Rotary Park, 3150 Taft St.
- Driftwood Community Center, 3000 N. 69th Ave.
Miami Gardens and Other Areas
The City of Miami Gardens has declared a state of emergency and will host a sandbag distribution event on Sunday at City Hall from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Similarly, Hallandale Beach has announced a state of emergency, advising residents to take immediate precautions as conditions worsen.
Coral Gables and More
Coral Gables officially declared a state of emergency ahead of Milton’s expected landfall, followed by Homestead’s announcement of a sandbag distribution event to take place Monday and Tuesday.
Some other municipalities, such as North Lauderdale and Pembroke Pines, have also initiated sandbag distribution efforts to assist residents.
Residents Prepare for the Storm
As residents rush to prepare for potential flooding, the mood grows tense with the threat of Hurricane Milton. Many individuals in Hollywood have already experienced flooding, with streets blocked due to severe weather.
Concerned residents expressed their worries. Debbie Andersen noted, “I live completely on the other end, and I tried to get through, but I couldn’t. I’m hoping it dissipates so I can at least get home.” She is not alone in her anxiety, as others are preparing ahead of the rain.
Local authorities have urged residents to adjust their driving due to deteriorating conditions, advising them to slow down and allow for increased distances between vehicles to maintain safety.
