- April 19, 2024
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Hurricane Dorian's slight shift west has Volusia County officials asking residents to finalize hurricane preparations today, Sunday, and not let the storm's lengthened timeline fatigue them into complacency.
Dorian strengthened into a Category 5 storm, with maximum sustained winds reaching nearly 180 mph, the 11 a.m. National Hurricane Center advisory stated. It is moving slower than yesterday at 7 mph, and its westward movement should continue for the next couple of days, followed by a gradual turn toward the northwest. Dorian should move closer to Florida late Monday through Tuesday night.
Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 45 miles from its center, and tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 140 miles, the advisory stated. Mandatory evacuations for the beachside, low-lying areas and RV and mobile home parks will be issued starting tomorrow, Monday, at 10 a.m. Shelters will also be opening at that time.
County Manager George Recktenwald said at a news conference at 1 p.m. Sunday that it's important people heed warnings.
“It’s one of the most powerful storms we’ve ever seen here in this area," Recktenwald said. "Even the slightest shift west, could make a world of difference for us.”
Residents should be hunkered down by Monday night, he said. Votran will provide free transportation to shelters and its regular bus routes as long as the weather permits. Those unable to reach a bus stop due to physical limitations can call 386-322-5100.
Volusia County Schools announced that schools will close from Tuesday-Thursday, Sept. 3-5. All school related activities on or off campus are cancelled through Thursday.
Dorian has been "consistently inconsistent," said County Emergency Management Director Jim Judge, who added that Volusia County will be issued a hurricane watch later today. Dorian could bring a 6-foot storm surge along the coast, and 4-6 inches of rain.
Beach ramps will be closed today, and officials will fly double-red flags on the beach, meaning no one should be in the waater. Coastal parks will close at 5 p.m., and all county parks will close beginning Tuesday. The Daytona Beach International Airport will be open Monday. Bridges will be closed when winds hit 39 mph.
“We are imploring people — take this seriously," Sheriff Mike Chitwood said. "This is not a drill. This is the real thing.”
County Council Chair Ed Kelley said things were looking up 24 hours ago, and have again taken a turn, so residents should not get complacent.
“Be preparing the worst case scenario," Kelley said. "Be prepared that it could make landfall. Be prepared that it could hug the coast.”
General
Special Needs Shelter – Assists evacuees with disabilities or functional medical needs. This is a Pet Friendly shelter for Special Needs persons only. Evacuees and their service animals will remain in the same location.
Pet Friendly – People and pets are housed in separate locations at the shelter
People Pet Shelter - (People and pets are house in the same location – Fairgrounds only)
Volusia County Fairgrounds, 3150 W. State Rd 44, DeLa
