- April 19, 2024
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Exactly 11 months ago, Hurricane Matthew ripped through Flagler County.
On Thursday, Sept. 7, representatives from across the county gathered at the Emergency Operations Center, located 1769 E. Moody Blvd., to discuss preparations as Hurricane Irma approaches.
Here's what they had to say:
Coffey announced voluntary evacuations for Zones A, B, C, D and F of Flagler County. It is important to note that the zone you live in is not the same as the neighborhood section you live in (ie: Section B is not Zone B). Voluntary evacuations were also suggested for anyone living in mobile homes, RVs and trailers.
In addition, Coffey said the county issued mandatory evacuations of nursing homes, assisted living facilities and community residential homes for the elderly in Zones A, B, C, D and F. The order was given at about 2 p.m. Thursday.
You can determine your evacuation zone by clicking here.
Coffey said evacuations are starting earlier because of the expectation of crowded roads and hotels and evacuations from South Florida begin.
As for the effects of the storm, Coffey said the county is embracing for a 10-foot storm sure — Hurricane Matthew was a 7-foot surge.
The county is anticipating severe damage at three locations along the A1A, including near Marineland just north of Flagler County; between 18th and 23rd Street; and at some of the temporarily repaired sections of A1A south of the Flagler Beach Fishing Pier.
The county is also expecting extensive power outage, for trees to be uplifted or snapped and flooding in low-lying areas.
“If you look at the path of the storm, it’s almost identical in many ways to Matthew, except a stronger version,” Coffey said. “Now is the time to get out.”
Garten said the Emergency Operations Center — which went into Activation Level 1 at 6 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 3 — is now at Activation Level 2, which is a partial activation.
Currently, the EOC’s call center is available from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. and that time frame will increase throughout the weekend.
To reach the call center, dial 386-586-5111.
For more information about the EOC and for any questions in regard to disaster kits, go to flaglercounty.org. At the bottom right of the home page, there is an icon that, when clicked on, will give you information on the storm.
Garten said county offices will not be open to the public on Friday, Sept. 8, and on Monday, Sept. 11, but employees will be working in preparation for the storm.
Tager said all classes and after-school activities for Friday, Sept. 8, and Monday, Sept. 11, have been canceled. In addition, all school and activities next week have been canceled.
“We’d done this to allow our families to prepare their homes for the storm and evacuate the area if they choose to do so,” Tager said.
Tager added that a team of administrators and directors is standing by at emergency shelters, which will be opened to evacuees once emergency management officials give the word.
Bunnell Elementary School, located 305 N. Palmetto St. in Bunnell, will serve as a shelter to the general public. Pets will be allowed in the school as well.
Rymfire Elementary School, located at 1425 Rymfire Drive in Palm Coast, is being prepared as a special needs center. Evacuees who require assistance with daily living or who have medical conditions preventing or hindering their ability to care for themselves may seek shelter in the school. A family member or caregiver should stay at the shelter with the individual.
Staly said the Sheriff’s Office will be providing security to all of the open shelters to ensure safety for evacuees inside each shelter.
Of the potential criminal activity that might occur during or after the storm, Staly had this to say: “Do not think you can take advantage of this weather event to prey on our community. We will put you in the Green Roof Inn, known as my jail, and take that seriously. We’re not going to tolerate any illegal activity or any other misbehavior that may occur.”
Davis said that although Bunnell will not have a mandatory evacuation, he highly encourages those living in mobile homes to consider evacuating.
“I just ask the citizens of Bunnell to follow along with what the county is doing,” he said.
Beadle said emergency response teams and heavy equipment have been stationed throughout the city for quick response. However, during the height of the storm, emergency services will be on lockdown and will not be able to assist with emergencies until roads are cleared following the storm.
“We are prepared for the worst, and we’re praying for the best outcome,” he said.
In addition, all events in the city have been canceled from Friday, Sept. 8, to next Wednesday, Sept. 13, including the swimming pool, golf course and tennis center.
Similar to the county’s call center, Beadle said the fire department plans to be available for residents throughout the storm.
Their number is 386-986-2360.
You can also keep in touch with them through their website, Facebook page and Twitter page.
Petito wants everyone in the evacuation zones to heed the warnings prior to the storm.
“Once the storm gets here, we can’t get out there to help you,” he said.
Petito said part of Florida Hospital Flagler may be evacuated but will stay open after the storm.
In addition, only call 9-1-1 if you need assistance. Petito said there have been hundreds of calls requesting rides to shelters. If you need a ride to a shelter, use the bus or taxi system.
Petito said his staff is gearing up for water rescue, with Urban Search and Rescue teams already in the area.
“Once the storm is over, we’re ready to respond,” he said.
Doughney echoed Sheriff Staly’s sentiments about those who are contemplating taking advantage of the city during or following the storm.
“If you want to come and wreak havoc in this county, you’ll be dealt with,” he said.
Doughney advised anyone who decides to stay to help their neighbors if need be.
“Show compassion,” he said. “Be Flagler strong.”
