On Monday at 6 p.m., Lake County officials hosted a live stream from the Lake County Emergency Operations Center to deliver essential storm preparedness tips to residents ahead of an incoming weather event. The live stream featured Kirby Smith, Chairman of Lake County, Capt. Christie Mysinger, Lake County Sheriff’s Office, and Megan Milanese, Director of Lake County Emergency Management. The officials provided critical information about shelter locations, what to pack in a go-kit, and how to stay safe during the storm.

Lake County Declares Level 1 Activation and Opens Shelters

The County has initiated a Level 1 activation, and officials will be opening 15 shelter locations across the area, including 9 pet-friendly shelters and 5 special needs shelters. The shelters will be open starting Tuesday at noon. Officials urged residents to take action now if they are reliant on electricity for medical devices like CPAP machines, oxygen, or medication that requires refrigeration.

For more information on shelter locations or to determine if you’re in a flood zone, residents can visit LakeCountyFL.gov or call the Citizens Hotline at 352-253-9999. “Real humans will be taking calls,” Megan says, emphasizing that residents can speak directly to staff members or volunteers for any questions or concerns.

“Now is the time to pick up all the stuff around the house,” Kirby said during the broadcast. He encouraged neighbors to help one another, saying, “If you have neighbors that need a helping hand, lend a hand. It goes a long way in our community.”

Storm Preparation and Safety Advice

Officials are urging residents to secure loose items around their properties that could become projectiles in strong winds, such as garbage cans, trampolines, coolers, and children’s toys.

“We haven’t had sustained hurricane-force winds since Hurricane Donna in 1960,” Megan says. “Collect anything that could go flying through the air.”

Kirby also noted the potential for power outages, urging residents with generators to “never run it in the house or in the garage. Make sure it’s in an open, dry area.” He encouraged everyone to stock up on batteries, flashlights, and portable battery chargers, especially if they live in areas with frequent outages.

If you live in a home on a well, it’s recommended to fill bathtubs or water bottles to ensure you have water in case the power goes out. Additionally, “If you live in a high-risk home, like a mobile home or an older house built before building codes were updated, consider staying with family or heading to a shelter,” Capt. Mysigner advised. Residents were reminded not to wait until the last minute to evacuate or make a plan.

Special Warnings for Astor and Flood Zones

The group specifically addressed the Astor community, warning that “Astor is a low-lying area, and with this storm expected to bring a significant amount of rain, we are anticipating the river to rise.” They urged residents in flood-prone areas to be cautious, advising, to go to a neighbor’s house that you know won’t flood. There is also a no-wake zone in effect for Astor due to current river levels already being in moderate flood stage.

Strong Winds and Tornado Warnings Expected

Megan Milanese, Director of Lake County Emergency Management, warned that the area could see “strong tropical-force to hurricane-force gusts, with winds up to 100 mph,” which are stronger than the area has experienced in recent years. Residents are also advised to pay attention to tornado warnings. “If you’re getting tornado warnings, move to an interior area of your home, like a bathroom or a space away from doors and windows,” Milanese emphasized.

Take Action Now: Prepare Early

As the storm approaches, Lake County officials are urging all residents to take early action. “Don’t wait until the last minute,” Kirby said. “If you’re unsure about the stability of your house, seek shelter in a different location or with family.”

The officials reassured residents that emergency personnel will be staged throughout the county during the storm, but urged everyone to find a safe place before the winds pick up, as there will come a time when it won’t be safe for law enforcement to be out either.

For more information, please visit LakeCountyFL.gov or call the Citizens Hotline at 352-253-9999 to speak directly with staff or volunteers about any concerns.