FLORIDA, (WDNews) – Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared a State of Emergency on Monday morning as the Gulf Coast braces for a potential hurricane. The declaration extends across 46 counties, including Holmes, Jackson, and Walton counties, and aims to prepare the state for potential disaster.
The affected counties include Alachua, Bay, Bradford, Calhoun, Charlotte, Citrus, Collier, Columbia, Dixie, Escambia, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Hernando, Hillsborough, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Monroe, Okaloosa, Pasco, Pinellas, Santa Rosa, Sarasota, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor, Union, Wakulla, Walton, and Washington.
Officials warn of severe conditions, including storm surge, coastal flooding, heavy rainfall, and flash flooding. The hazardous weather could cause disruptions to major roadways, airports, hospitals, and power infrastructure. The executive order is already in effect as the state ramps up preparations.
Residents in the affected areas are encouraged to monitor updates closely and heed any evacuation or safety notices.
