FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, October 9, 2024
HURRICANE MILTON UPDATE #7

In anticipation of Hurricane Milton making landfall, the Hardee County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) is closely
monitoring the storm’s path and activating emergency preparedness plans.

Key Points:
Related Weather Updates: As of 5:00 PM, Major Hurricane Milton is located about 60 miles west-southwest of Sarasota,
Florida and about 170 miles southwest of Orlando, Florida and moving northeastward at 17 mph. Maximum sustained winds
are near 120 mph (Category 3) with higher gusts.
• A hurricane warning, flash flood and tornado watch has been issued for Hardee County
• Hurricane force winds are anticipated at approximately 2 am this morning (October 10, 2024)
• Rainfall has forecasted 6-12 inches with locally higher amounts possible
• Tropical storm force winds will most likely be out of our area at 7am Thursday morning (October 10, 2024)

Hardee County Storm Information Line: For Hurricane Milton information please call Hardee County Emergency Management. Phone lines will continue to be staffed throughout the storm. For information and concerns call 863-773-6373.

Emergency Operations Center Activation: The Hardee County EOC is fully activated (Level 1) as of 4:00 pm today.

Recommended Evacuations for Low-Lying Areas: Evacuations for the following areas are extremely recommended: Bronco Drive, River Road, Riverview, Thousand Trails RV Park, Crews Park, Cross Creek Road and River Lane.

Utility Services Countywide – Please make a concerted effort to conserve water and slow the use of wastewater as much as possible. Extended rain events are taxing on all infrastructure.

Peace River - The river level is currently at 14.51 feet. This level is approximately 1.5 feet below minor flooding stage (16
feet). Major flood stage is 22 feet.

Shelters: Shelters are closed. Please shelter in place.

Roadway Flooding: Law enforcement partners are monitoring local street flooding countywide. Please shelter in place.

Power Related Concerns: The EOC has confirmed with all power provider within Hardee County that there are no planned
power outages before or after the storm arrival. Line crews will respond to outages as long as conditions are safe.

Traffic Signals: If signal is out, treat it like a 4 way stop; If the signal is flashing red, treat it like a stop sign; If the light is flashing yellow, proceed with caution when traffic permits.

First Responder Agencies: Emergency vehicles do not operate once sustained winds reach 45 miles per hour (mph).
These conditions make it extremely dangerous for responders to navigate the roads, putting both them and those in need
at risk.

Monitor Local Media: Follow the Hardee County Emergency Management social media pages and website for official
updates and information. Ensure your mobile device is registered for emergency alerts (e.g., Wireless Emergency Alerts,
or WEA) to receive timely notifications.

Hardee County is committed to the safety and well-being of its residents. By working together and following these guidelines,
we can minimize the potential impacts of Hurricane Milton and ensure a swift recovery.