Mayor Deegan Addresses Flooding and Storm Surge Concerns Ahead of Hurricane Milton

Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan has raised concerns about flooding and storm surge ahead of Hurricane Milton, which is expected to impact the area from Wednesday evening into Thursday morning. Residents are urged to finalize preparations and seek higher ground if necessary. A local state of emergency will be declared, with anticipated heavy rainfall causing significant flooding in various neighborhoods. City services will adjust accordingly, and residents are advised to secure loose debris ahead of the storm.

In Jacksonville, Florida, Mayor Donna Deegan has formally stated that flooding and storm surge present the most significant concerns with the impending impact of Hurricane Milton, which is forecasted to affect the region from Wednesday evening through Thursday morning. Contrary to Hurricane Helene, which also posed threats, the unique challenge with Milton lies in the anticipated heavy rainfall, with expectations of 4 to 6 inches, and the potential for localized amounts reaching upwards of 10 inches in some areas, exacerbating the existing saturated ground conditions. As a proactive measure, Duval County was placed under a Hurricane Watch this past Monday evening. Mayor Deegan detailed in a news conference that tropical storm force winds between 40 to 50 mph, with gusts possibly reaching 60 to 70 mph, are likely, particularly along beach fronts and high-rise areas. Notably, flooding is expected to affect various neighborhoods such as Ortega, Riverside, San Marco, Southampton, Downtown, and areas near the Trout and Ribault Rivers. In anticipation of the storm’s arrival, residents are urged to finalize their hurricane preparations by Tuesday evening. Moreover, Mayor Deegan has advised those located in flood-prone areas to seek higher ground or utilize city shelters. A local state of emergency will be officially declared at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, coinciding with a full activation of the Emergency Operations Center. Utility provider JEA has prepared for possible storm impacts, warning residents to expect the possibility of longer restoration times due to widespread ramifications from Hurricane Milton across the state. City offices and Duval County Public Schools will remain closed from Wednesday to Friday, and normal operations for city transportation will continue as long as safe conditions permit. Solid waste collection services will be conducted as scheduled on Tuesday; however, all services planned for Wednesday and Thursday will be suspended, with a rescheduling to Saturday for Thursday collections. Residents are encouraged to secure any debris to prevent hazards during the storm. As part of the preparations, citizens may call 630-CITY for further inquiries or download the JaxREADY application for relevant updates.

The article outlines Jacksonville’s preparations and responses to the impending Hurricane Milton, highlighting the contrast with previous storms, particularly Hurricane Helene. Mayor Deegan’s emphasis on flooding and storm surge prepares the community for the specific threats associated with heavy rainfall, saturated grounds, and high winds. The article provides information on city services and utility readiness, as well as the logistical measures in place for public safety ahead of the severe weather event.

In summary, Jacksonville is preparing for the severe impacts of Hurricane Milton, with particular emphasis on the risks associated with flooding and strong winds. Mayor Deegan has urged residents to complete their storm preparations by Tuesday night and to be aware of the logistical changes in city services as the storm approaches. Ensuring safety and readiness is paramount as Hurricane Milton looms over the region.

Original Source: www.news4jax.com