Milton Updates

Latest news is displayed first.

Visit ocfl.net/storm for resources and information on storm recovery. Follow the National Weather Service for the latest weather updates.

Para ver las últimas actualizaciones en Español, visite ocfl.net/Milton-es.
Pou w ka wè dènye mizajou yo an Kreyòl, ale sou ocfl.net/Milton-cr.

Orange County Multicultural Center FEMA Disaster Recovery Center (DRC)
7149 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32818

• Sunday, December 8, Closed
• Monday, December 9 – Saturday, December 14, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• Sunday, December 15, Closed
• Monday, December 16 – Thursday, December 19, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

The DRC will permanently close on Thursday, December 19, 2024.

Orange County Multicultural Center FEMA Disaster Recovery Center
7149 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32818

• Friday, November 22 – Saturday, November 30,  Closed
• Sunday, December 1, 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The FEMA Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) located at the Orange County Multicultural Center will be closed on Saturday, November 9. The Disaster Recovery Center will reopen on Sunday, November 10, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. The FEMA Disaster Recovery Center will also be closed in observance of Veterans Day on Monday, November 11. The Center will reopen on Tuesday, November 12, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Orange County Multicultural Center FEMA Disaster Recovery Center
7149 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32818

• Saturday, November 9,  Closed
• Sunday, November 10, 12:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
• Monday, November 11, Closed
• Tuesday, November 12, 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The FEMA DRC provides a one-stop-shop for individuals or businesses that need help recovering from loss or damage sustained during the storms. FEMA partners with local and state agencies.

Representatives from state agencies, partners, and federal organizations, along with volunteer groups,  will be available to provide individual and business assistance, including:

• FEMA Individual Assistance
• FEMA Mitigation
• Small Business Administration
• Crisis Counseling
• Florida Dept. of Children and Families
• Florida Dept. of Business and Professional Regulation
• Agency for Persons with Disabilities

Individuals can also apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by using the FEMA mobile app, or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362.

Residents can zoom in on their street to see the status of the clean-up

To assist our residents in keeping track of neighborhood debris removal, Orange County Public Works has developed an interactive map to help answer residents’ questions concerning debris from Hurricane Milton.

The map allows users to see where Orange County’s debris removal contractors are currently working and the status of the clean-up in their area.

Residents can also zoom in on their street or enter their home address to see whether debris removal on their street has been completed, is in progress, is scheduled, or will be up next.

The interactive map may be found here: https://bit.ly/ocdebrisstatus

 

Orange County, FL – Two FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) will open this weekend to serve residents impacted by Hurricane Milton: the Orange County Multicultural Center and the Bithlo Community Center.

The Orange County FEMA Disaster Recovery Center and a Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) are at the following locations:

Orange County Multicultural Center FEMA Disaster Recovery Center
7149 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32818

• Saturday, October 26, 1:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
• Sunday, October 27 , 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Monday, October 28 – Saturday, November 2, 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Bithlo Community Center – State of Florida  Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC)
18501 Washington Avenue, Orlando, FL 32820

• Saturday, October 26 – Sunday, October 27, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Monday, October 28 – Saturday, November 2, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Apopka City Hall – CLOSED – 120 E. Main Street, Apopka, Florida 32703

The FEMA DRC provides a one-stop-shop for individuals or businesses that need help recovering from loss or damage sustained during the storms. FEMA partners with local and state agencies.

Representatives from state agencies, partners, and federal organizations, along with volunteer groups,  will be available to provide individual and business assistance, including:

• FEMA Individual Assistance
• FEMA Mitigation
• Small Business Administration
• Crisis Counseling
• Florida Dept. of Children and Families
• Florida Dept. of Business and Professional Regulation
• Agency for Persons with Disabilities

Individuals can also apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by using the FEMA mobile app, or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362.

For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

###

Homeowners and renters in Orange County who sustained damage or loss from Hurricanes Milton, Helene or Debby, may qualify for help from FEMA.

Individuals may be eligible for financial assistance for displacement, serious needs, temporary lodging, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured disaster-related expenses. Starting Tuesday, October 22, 2024, FEMA will help applicants register for assistance at two locations in Orange County. Each site will operate from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the following locations:

Bithlo Community Center
18501 Washington Avenue, Orlando, FL 32820

Apopka City Hall
120 E. Main Street, Apopka, FL 32703

Individuals seeking to apply for FEMA assistance will need to provide:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted.
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
• Your Social Security number.
• A general list of damage and losses.
• Banking information is you choose to direct deposit.
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

Individuals can also apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by using the FEMA mobile app, or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362.

For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. Follow FEMA on X at www.x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

Extended another week, now until Sunday, Oct. 27, 2024, Orange County residents can drop off non-commercial yard waste from Hurricane Milton at three locations across the county, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. each day. Sites include:

• Conway Water Treatment Plant – 3590 Manatee Street, Orlando, FL 32822
• Harrell Road – 8503 Trevarthon Road, Orlando, FL 32817
• Zellwood Maintenance Unit – 3500 Golden Gem Road, Apopka, FL 32712

The sites will accept only loose vegetative debris—no bags or containers. White goods (large household appliances) and other household items will not be accepted. Contractors, lawn care, or commercial companies are prohibited from using these drop-off sites. Upon arrival, residents must present a valid driver’s license, utility bill, or other official document verifying Orange County residency. Residents can use the County’s interactive map to find their nearest drop-off site.

Disaster debris removal crews to deploy in Orange County. Large storm debris collection begins on Wednesday, October 16, 2024.

Orange County Public Works crews are set to deploy on October 16, 2024, to collect large storm debris from Hurricane Milton. With the initial focus on vegetative debris, crews may make multiple passes to clear an area. Residents are asked to follow these guidelines:

1. Debris should be placed on the curb at the edge of the property.
2. The debris to be collected must be separated into the following categories:

• Vegetative – Includes large branches, tree limbs, logs, and plants.
• Appliances – Includes refrigerators, washers and dryers, and air conditioners.
• Electronics – Includes televisions, computers, and similar smaller items.

3. Separate fencing materials from vegetative debris.
4. Place debris and debris piles AWAY from trees, poles, fire hydrants, water meters, or other structures.
5. Ensure that the debris does not block the road, sidewalk, or storm drains.
6. Leaves and small debris must be bagged, canned, or bundled and placed for collection with normal yard waste pick-up on the assigned day.

For additional information, please call Orange County’s 311 HelpLine.

Orange County residents will have multiple options for disposing of debris from Hurricane Milton.

Vegetative Debris Drop-off

Beginning Monday, October 14, 2024, designated drop-off sites will accept non-commercial yard waste, including leaves, branches, and other natural debris. The sites will be open Monday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Tuesday through Sunday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sites will not be accessible to the public before Monday. Sites include:

• Conway Water Treatment Plant – 3590 Manatee Street, Orlando, FL 32822
• Harrell Road – 8503 Trevarthon Road, Orlando, FL 32817
• Zellwood Maintenance Unit – 3500 Golden Gem Road, Apopka, FL 32712

The sites will accept only loose vegetative debris—no bags or containers. White goods (large household appliances) and other household items will not be accepted. Contractors, lawn care, or commercial companies are prohibited from using these drop-off sites. Upon arrival, residents must present a valid driver’s license, utility bill, or other official document verifying Orange County residency. Residents can use the County’s interactive map to find their nearest drop-off site.

Curbside Debris Removal

Orange County Government expects to begin its storm curbside debris removal for unincorporated Orange County by Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024. Two debris contractors and one debris monitor will be deployed with heavy-duty equipment to consolidate and remove storm-related debris. Contractors will collect piles at the curb that are too large to be picked up through the County’s residential curbside collection program. Residents are encouraged to separate debris by type—vegetative, white goods, household items, etc.—and place it at the curb for collection as soon as possible.

Orange County residents may now apply for federal disaster assistance for losses resulting from Hurricane Milton.

To be eligible for federal aid under FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program, storm damage and losses from the hurricane and flooding must have occurred as a result of Hurricane Milton.

If you have insurance, you must file a claim with your insurance company first. If you do not have insurance or insurance does not cover your claim, you may apply for FEMA assistance.

Residents who suffered Milton-related damages are encouraged to register with FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov, on the FEMA Mobile App, or by calling 800-621-3362 (FEMA).

Orange County individuals and households should have the following information ready when applying:

• Contact information (Telephone number, Mailing address, Social Security number)
• Household income
• Address of damaged home or apartment
• Description of damage/lost items
• Photos of your damaged home and belongings
• Information about insurance coverage
• Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of funds

The toll-free number 800-621-3362 (FEMA) is open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week.

Due to the high water in our lakes, all county-operated boat ramps are closed. This includes the following:

• Rd Keene
• Lake Down
• Magnolia park
• Moss park
• Bywater
• Woodsmere
• Randolph
• Fern creek
• Hwy 50
• Barnett Park
• Trimble

Watch the full news conference on YouTube or Vimeo.

MILTON UPDATE – KEY TAKEAWAYS 10/11/2024

HOW TO HELP

• Heart of Florida United Way: Donate to the Hurricane Recovery Fund.
• Second Harvest Food Bank: Donate to the Hurricane Milton Disaster Relief.
• American Red Cross: Donate to help people affected by Hurricanes Milton and Helene.
• Salvation Army: Donate to support Hurricane Relief Efforts.

GARBAGE AND LANDFILL

The Orange County Landfill and transfer stations are open and will accept vegetative yard waste free of charge on the following days:

Orange County Landfill: Friday, Oct. 11 to Sunday, Oct. 13, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Orange County Transfer Station: Sunday, Oct. 13, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Residents should be prepared to provide their driver’s license to confirm Orange County residency.

Regular curbside collection services are planned to resume starting Monday, Oct. 14. Yard waste collection will be delayed due to post-storm volume.

WASTEWATER

Residents are asked to reduce their impact on the wastewater system by reducing water usage when possible. This will lessen the strain on pump stations and help prevent sewage overflows. Limit large, immediate water usage in dishwashers, washing machines and baths. Water stored in bathtubs should be drained slowly, not all at once.

SHELTERS

Orange County sheltered more than 2,600 people from Hurricane Milton. As of 12 p.m., Friday, Oct. 11, 2024, all general population shelters are closed.

PARKS

The following parks, boat ramps, and trails are CLOSED to the public on Saturday:

• Cypress Grove Park (events in buildings will still take place)
• Trimble Park
• West Orange Trail (portions)
• Little Econ Greenway (portions)
• Moss Park
• Kelly Park
• Magnolia Park
• RD Keene Boat Ramp
• Lake Down Boat Ramp

POWER OUTAGES
Utility crews are currently working to restore power to customers as quickly and safely as possible.

Duke: 67,000 customers in Orange County are currently affected by power outages. Duke Energy will issue estimated times for restoration for all customers by the end of today.

OUC: 28,768 customers in Orange County are currently affected by power outages. OUC plans to release a significant system-wide estimated time of restoration for customers by 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 12.

Report outages to your electric provider in Orange County.

• Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC): 407-423-9018
• Duke Energy: 800-228-8485
• Winter Park Utility: 877-811-8700

TIP, TOSS, COVER

Standing water across Orange County is a major breeding ground for mosquitoes. As you evaluate damage and debris around your home, please remember:

• Tip out any standing water from garbage cans, plant pots, pools, and other containers.
• Toss out anything that can hold water, like tires and bottles.
• Cover up with mosquito repellants that contain DEET and are EPA-approved.

For children under two months old, the Florida Department of Health in Orange County recommends using mosquito netting.

CLOSURES

Orange County Government: County offices are closed today. Normal operations will resume on Monday, Oct. 14.

Ninth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida: Courthouses are closed today. Normal operations will resume on Monday, Oct. 14.

Orange County Public Schools: Schools are closed today. Schools will reopen on Tuesday, Oct. 15. A makeup day for students is scheduled for Oct. 25, 2024

LYNX: LYNX regular bus and NeighborLink services are operational. Route 701 is not in service, but will return once schools reopen.

ACCESS LYNX will provide life-sustaining trips only on Friday, Oct. 11. Normal service will resume Saturday, Oct. 12. Customers are encouraged to call 407-423-8747 and book their trip.

Orlando International Airport: Outbound passenger flights have resumed. Travelers should reach out to their specific airlines for information regarding individual flight status.

Orange County Environmental Protection Division has issued an alert for all lakes and rivers in Orange County until further notice.

Please refrain from recreation and contact in and around waterbodies. Many of these systems may have been adversely impacted by Hurricane Milton and are experiencing high water levels, potential for contamination, displaced and disoriented wildlife and submerged structures.

If you have any questions about your lake, please email Lakes@ocfl.net.

Watch the full news conference on YouTube or Vimeo.

MILTON UPDATE – KEY TAKEAWAYS 10/10/2024

WEATHER UPDATE

All hurricane and tropical storm watches and warnings have ended for Orange County. Weather totals from Hurricane Milton:

• Highest wind gusts measured at 87 mph
• More than 10 inches of rain in parts of Orange County
• Over 42 tornado warnings issued across Central Florida

Current weather advisories for Orange County:

• Flood watch
• Wind advisory until 8 p.m.

SHELTERS

Orange County sheltered more than 2600 people from Hurricane Milton. As of 3 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024, the following shelters are closed:

• Carver Middle School
• Colonial High School
• Lake Buena Vista High School
• Lake Nona High School
• Ocoee High School
• Odyssey Middle School
• Timber Springs Middle School
• Union Park Middle School
• Wedgefield K-8 School

INOPERABLE TRAFFIC LIGHTS

If you approach an intersection and see the traffic signal not functioning normally, follow these rules:

• Flashing Red: Treat the light as a stop sign. Be sure to look in all directions before carefully advancing through an intersection.
• Flashing Yellow: Slow down and proceed with caution through the intersection.
• Lights Out: Treat an inoperable stoplight as a four-way stop. Don’t expect other drivers to follow suit. Observe crossroads and pedestrian crossings and then proceed with caution.

Orange County residents can dial 311, download the OCFL 311 mobile app, or call 407-836-3111 to report non-emergency incidents.

WASTEWATER

Residents are asked to reduce their impact on the wastewater system by reducing water usage when possible. This will reduce the strain on our pump stations and help prevent sewage overflows. Limit large, immediate water usage in dishwashers, washing machines and baths. Water stored in bathtubs should be drained slowly, not all at once.

BUILDING SAFETY

Division of Building Safety Habitability Assessment teams comprised of licensed Building and Electrical Inspectors will deploy on Friday, Oct. 11. Residents can dial 311 or use the OCFL 311 app to report damage.

GARBAGE AND LANDFILL

The Orange County Landfill and transfer stations should reopen at 8 a.m. Friday, Oct. 11.

Only residential garbage in the green lid carts will be collected when curbside collection resumes on Friday, Oct. 11, and Saturday, Oct. 12, in areas that are accessible. Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday customers should set out garbage green lid cans by 6 a.m. Friday, Oct.11. Regular collection services are planned to resume starting Monday, Oct. 14.

Yard waste collection will be delayed due to post-storm volume.

POWER OUTAGES

Utility crews are currently assessing outages and working to restore power to customers as quickly and safely as possible.

Duke: 110,000 customers in Orange County are currently affected by power outages.

OUC: 61,125 customers in Orange County are currently affected by power outages.

Report outages to your electric provider in Orange County.

• Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC): 407-423-9018
• Duke Energy: 800-228-8485
• Winter Park Utility: 877-811-8700

GENERATOR SAFETY

Although generators are extremely useful tools during a power outage, they can also be extremely dangerous if not used correctly. Review these important generator safety tips to keep your family safe.

• Review the owner’s manual and follow all instructions.
• Never use generators indoors or in partially enclosed spaces.
• Never run a generator in areas where people or animals are present.
• Always connect a generator to appliances with heavy-duty extension cords.
• Never store fuel for your generator in your house.
• Do not store fuels near a fuel-burning appliance such as a stove or water heater.
• Before refueling the generator, turn it off and let it cool down.

For more information on generator safety, visit ocfl.net/storm.

CLOSURES

Orange County Government: County offices are closed on Thursday, Oct. 10 and Friday, Oct. 11. Normal operations will resume on Monday, Oct. 14.

Ninth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida: Courthouses are closed on Thursday, Oct. 10, and Friday, Oct. 11. Normal operations will resume on Monday, Oct. 14.

Orange County Public Schools: Schools are closed Thursday, Oct. 10, and Friday, Oct. 11. Teams are on site assessing buildings for damage and will communicate with parents on school reopening dates.

LYNX: LYNX has modified service on the road today, Oct. 10. Regular bus and NeighborLink service is anticipated to resume starting Friday, Oct. 11. ACCESS LYNX will provide life-sustaining trips only through Friday, Oct. 11. Normal service will resume Saturday, Oct. 12. Customers are encouraged to call 407-423-8747 and book their trip.

Orlando International Airport: Outbound passenger flights will resume Friday, Oct. 11. Travelers should reach out to their specific airlines for information regarding flights.

Watch the full news conference on YouTube or Vimeo.

WEATHER UPDATE

Orange County is under a Hurricane Warning, with an elevated threat of tornadoes. Residents should shelter in place until the storm has passed. The county is currently under a local state of emergency, and a state and federal state of emergency.

Potential Weather Threats:

• Tropical Storm Force winds 45-65 mph
• Up to 8-12 inches of rain in parts of Orange County
• Increased risk of tornadoes

TORNADO RISK

Due to the elevated threat of tornadoes, residents are advised to stay updated on weather alerts. The National Weather Service has three key alerts to watch out for regarding tornadoes.

Tornado Watch: Be Prepared!  Tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. Be ready to act quickly if a warning is issued or if you suspect a tornado is approaching.

Tornado Warning: Take Action! A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If in a mobile home, a vehicle, or outdoors, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.

Tornado Emergency: Seek Shelter Immediately! There is a severe threat to human life and property, with catastrophic damage confirmed. Immediately seek refuge in the safest location possible.

FLOODING RISK

The National Weather Service predicts that Orange County may receive 8-12 inches of rain between today and Friday, with the heaviest rainfall expected in the central and western parts of the county. Residents in flood-prone areas should prepare for potential flooding and possible evacuations.

The Orlo Vista/Westside Manor area is expected to experience significant roadway and yard flooding as local water bodies are near capacity. The following areas are at risk:

• Ronnie Circle, Murry Drive, Livingston St., Mandrake St., Pearlwood St., Pine Hills, and Dover St.: Roadway flooding is expected.
• Washington St. and Oak Branch Ave. (Oak Crest Mobile Home Park): Street and yard flooding are anticipated as Lake Orlo and nearby canals approach critical levels. No structural flooding is predicted at this time.
• Additional areas at high risk of flooding include any area within a FEMA 100-year floodplain.

Residents in these areas should remain alert, avoid flooded roads, and prepare for possible evacuations if conditions worsen. Stay updated through official channels and follow safety recommendations.

SHELTERS

The following locations have been opened for individuals looking to shelter from the effects of Hurricane Milton. Locations include:

General Population

• Apopka High School (pet friendly)
• Carver Middle School (pet friendly)
• Lake Buena Vista High School
• Lake Nona High School (pet friendly)
• Oak Ridge High School
• Ocoee High School
• Odyssey Middle School
• Timber Springs Middle School
• Union Park Middle School (pet friendly)
• Wedgefield K-8 School

Persons with Special Needs

• Freedom High School (pet friendly)
• Goldenrod Recreation Center (pet friendly)
• Silver Star Recreation Center (pet friendly)
• South Econ Recreation Center (pet friendly)

The Orange County shelter at Colonial High School has reached capacity. Orange County residents requiring a PSN Shelter should dial 3-1-1 or 407-836-3111. For important information on what to bring to a shelter, visit ocfl.net/shelters.

GARBAGE AND LANDFILL

Garbage: Orange County Utilities will not collect residential curbside garbage, yard waste, recycling, and large items on Wednesday, Oct. 9, and Thursday, Oct. 10. Any customers who have items out today should secure those items inside or near a structure until after the storm passes.

Customers with Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday garbage collection should set out their carts by 6 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 11. Haulers will service these customers on Friday, Oct. 11, and Saturday, Oct. 12.

Regular collection services will resume on Monday, Oct. 14. Due to public health and safety concerns stemming from emergency conditions, only residential garbage in the green lid carts will be collected when curbside collection resumes.

Landfill and Transfer Stations: Facilities will be closed to the public Wednesday, Oct. 9, and Thursday, Oct. 10. The facilities will reopen when conditions are safe, which is planned for Friday, Oct. 11.

BOIL WATER UPDATE

A Precautionary Boil Water Advisory has ended for Old Cheney Highway, Lake Pickett and the Chuluota area in east Orange County.

POWER OUTAGES

Residents are asked to be prepared for prolonged power outages. When possible, report outages to your electric provider in Orange County.

• Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC): 407-423-9018
• Duke Energy: 800-228-8485
• Winter Park Utility: 877-811-8700

GENERATOR SAFETY

Although generators are extremely useful tools during a power outage, they can also be extremely dangerous if not used correctly. Review these important generator safety tips to keep your family safe.

• Review the owner’s manual and follow all instructions.
• Never use generators indoors or in partially enclosed spaces.
• Never run a generator in areas where people or animals are present.
• Always connect a generator to appliances with heavy-duty extension cords.
• Never store fuel for your generator in your house.
• Do not store fuel near a fuel-burning appliance such as a stove or water heater.
• Before refueling the generator, turn it off and let it cool down.

For more information on generator safety, visit ocfl.net/storm.

CLOSURES

Orange County Government: County offices are closed from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Friday, Oct. 11.

Ninth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida: Courthouses are closed on Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Friday, Oct. 11.

Orange County Public Schools: Schools are closed on Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Friday, Oct. 11.

LYNX: As of 3 p.m. today, LYNX transportation services have been discontinued until further notice, including ACCESS LYNX services.

Watch the full news conference on YouTube or Vimeo.

WEATHER UPDATE

The National Weather Service has placed Orange County under a Hurricane Warning. Milton’s latest track shows that damaging hurricane conditions are increasingly likely in Orange County.

Beginning tomorrow morning, rainbands will increase over Orange County and continue throughout the day. After sunset, there is a potential to feel tropical storm-force winds.

From Wednesday night through Thursday

• Wind gusts in excess of 74 miles per hour
• The potential for 6 to 12 inches of rain

Follow the National Weather Service or local news station for the latest weather updates.

FLOODING RISK

The National Hurricane Center forecasts that Orange County will experience 6 to 12 inches of rain from Wednesday through Thursday, with the northern and western parts of Orange County receiving the heavier rainfall. Due to the risk of heavy rains and potential flooding, residents in flood-prone areas are advised to stay updated on weather alerts and have evacuation plans if necessary.

Areas at High Risk of Flooding:

• Locations that experienced flooding during Hurricane Irma or Hurricane Ian.
• Any area within a FEMA 100-year floodplain
• Areas with historic flooding from tropical systems, including:

• • Orlo Vista / Westside Manor
  • Bonnie Brook neighborhood
  • Rio Pinar neighborhood and surrounding areas
  • Near the intersection of Rouse Road and Buck Road
  • Four Corners area (Avalon Road/Arrowhead Boulevard)
  • Lower areas in northern and western Orange County

Action Steps:

• Stay Informed: Follow weather updates and forecasts through local news or the National Hurricane Center.
• Prepare to Evacuate: If you live in one of the areas listed or know your property is prone to flooding, consider sheltering with family or friends living outside these areas. Multiple shelters are also open across the County.
• Protect Property: Clear storm drains, elevate valuables and consider sandbagging in low-lying areas.

SHELTERS

Shelters for Persons with Special Needs (PSN) are open, and general population shelters will open by 6 p.m. this evening. IDs are not required to enter a shelter. Households in flood-prone areas or mobile home structures should consider sheltering with family or friends living outside of these areas.

General Population

• Apopka High School (pet friendly)
• Carver Middle School (pet friendly)
• Colonial High School (pet friendly)
• Lake Buena Vista High School
• Lake Nona High School (pet friendly)
• Oak Ridge High School
• Ocoee High School
• Odyssey Middle School
• Timber Springs Middle School
• Union Park Middle School (pet friendly)
• Wedgefield K-8 School

Persons with Special Needs

• Freedom High School (pet friendly) (Open Wednesday, Oct. 9 by 8 a.m.)
• Goldenrod Recreation Center (pet friendly)
• Silver Star Recreation Center (pet friendly)
• South Econ Recreation Center (pet friendly)

Orange County residents requiring a PSN Shelter should dial 3-1-1 or 407-836-3111. LYNX will provide free service to shelter locations. For important information on what to bring to a shelter, visit ocfl.net/shelters.

GARBAGE COLLECTION

Orange County Utilities is suspending all curbside garbage collection services on Wednesday, Oct. 9, and Thursday, Oct. 10.

Garbage collection will resume Friday, Oct. 11, and Saturday, Oct. 12. At that time, only residential garbage in the green lid carts will be collected. Other regular collection services will resume on Monday, Oct. 14. Any customers who have items out at the end of today should secure those items inside or near a structure until after the storm passes.

Additionally, the landfill and transfer stations will be closed to the public. Those facilities will reopen when conditions are safe.

For more information, visit www.ocfl.net/WasteSites.

Watch the full news conference on YouTube or Vimeo.

WEATHER UPDATE

Orange County is currently under a local state of emergency, and also a state and federal state of emergency. The county is also under a Hurricane Watch. Impacts from Hurricane Milton are expected to begin mid-day Wednesday.  All storm preparation should be completed by Tuesday night.

Potential Weather Threats:

• Hurricane Force Winds 74-110 mph
• 3-6” of rain in Central Florida, some areas 10-12”

The National Weather Service will provide more details on the storm’s timing and path tomorrow.

SHELTERS

The following locations are open for individuals looking to shelter from the effects of Hurricane Milton. Locations include:

General Population Shelters
Open Tuesday evening, Oct. 8, by 6 p.m.

• Apopka High School*: 555 Martin Street, Apopka, FL 32712
• Carver Middle School*: 4500 W. Columbia Street, Orlando, FL32811-4052
• Colonial High School*: 6100 Oleander Drive, Orlando, FL 32807
• Lake Buena Vista High School: 11305 Daryl Carter Parkway, Orlando, FL 32836
• Lake Nona High School*: 12500 Narcoossee Road, Orlando, FL 32832
• Oak Ridge High School: 700 W. Oak Ridge Road, Orlando, FL 32809
• Ocoee High School: 1925 Ocoee Crown Point Parkway, Ocoee, FL 34761
• Odyssey Middle School: 9290 Lee Vista Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32829
• Timber Springs Middle School: 16001 Timber Park Lane, Orlando, FL 32828
• Union Park Middle School*: 1844 Westfall Drive, Orlando, FL 32817
• Wedgefield K-8: 3835 Bancroft Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32833

* Denotes Pet-Friendly Shelter

Persons with Special Needs (PSN) Shelters
Open Tuesday morning, Oct. 8, by 10 a.m.

• Goldenrod Rec.: 4863 N. Goldenrod Road, Winter Park, FL 32792
• Silver Star Rec.: 2801 N. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando, FL 32818
• South Econ Park: 3850 S. Econlockhatchee Trail, Orlando, FL 32829

Orange County residents requiring a PSN Shelter please dial 3-1-1 or 407-836-3111. LYNX will provide free service to shelter locations. For important information on what to bring to a shelter, visit ocfl.net/shelters.

GARBAGE AND LANDFILL

On Tuesday, Oct. 8, residents can bring excess yard waste from Hurricane Helene to the Orange County Landfill during regular operating hours. Residential yard waste fees will be waived. For more information, visit ocfl.net/WasteSites.

Any changes to operational hours for the Orange County Landfill, transfer stations, or curbside collections will be communicated to residents on Tuesday, Oct. 8.

BOIL WATER

A Precautionary Boil Water Advisory is still in effect for Old Cheney Highway, Lake Pickett and the Chuluota area in east Orange County. Boil water for at least one minute prior to consumption. If collecting water for use during or after Hurricane Milton, boil water prior to storage and use. An update will be issued on Wednesday, Oct. 9.

POWER OUTAGES

Utility companies are out securing the service area. Residents are asked to be prepared for prolonged power outages. When possible, report outages to your electric provider in Orange County.

• Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC): 407-423-9018
• Duke Energy: 800-228-8485
• Winter Park Utility: 877-811-8700

SANDBAGS

Free self-service sandbags are available tomorrow, Tuesday, Oct. 8, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at six locations across the county. Individuals with special needs who need sandbag assistance should contact Orange County 311 by dialing 3-1-1 or 407-836-3111.

CLOSURES

Orange County Government: County offices are closed on Wednesday, Oct. 9, and Thursday, Oct. 10.

Ninth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida: Courthouses are closed on Wednesday, Oct. 9, and Thursday, Oct. 10.

Orange County Public Schools: After-school activities are canceled on Tuesday, Oct. 8. Schools are closed on Wednesday, Oct. 9, and Thursday, Oct. 10.

LYNX: Regular LYNX transportation services will continue as scheduled until sustained winds reach 35 mph or flooding occurs. Starting 12 hours before winds are expected to reach 35 mph, ACCESS LYNX will only provide life-sustaining medical trips.

Residents will be provided with 10 unfilled sandbags. All residents will need to bring their own shovel to fill their sandbags. Individuals with special needs who need sandbag assistance should contact Orange County 311 by dialing 3-1-1 or 407-836-3111.

Hours of Operation

• Monday, October 7, 2024, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Tuesday, October 8, 2024, 2024, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

*Locations are subject to close earlier than scheduled due to weather conditions.

Sandbag Locations (Map)

• Barnett Park: 4801 W. Colonial Drive Orlando, FL 32808
• Bithlo Community Park: 18501 Washington Avenue, Orlando, FL 32820
• Clarcona Horse Park: 3535 Damon Road, Apopka, FL 32703
• Downey Park:10107 Flowers Avenue, Orlando, FL 32825
• Meadow Woods Rec.: 1751 Rhode Island Woods Circle, Orlando, FL 32824
• West Orange Rec.: 309 S West Crown Point Road, Winter Garden, FL 34787

For additional storm preparedness information and to sign up for OC Alert, the county’s emergency alert system, visit www.ocfl.net/storm.