Weather experts to skeptics: Evacuate before Hurricane Matthew hurts you

Weather forecasters have a clear message for all residents of areas in the path of Hurricane Matthew: evacuate now. 

While conservative voices like The Drudge Report's Matt Drudge have suggested that the U.S. government is over-playing the strength of the storm to make a point about climate change, weather experts across TV and the internet are urging citizens to not underestimate the hurricane's damage. It has already led to at least 280 deaths in Caribbean.

SEE ALSO: A weather geek's live blog: Hurricane Matthew surges towards U.S.

The Weather Channel's Bryan Norcross in particular has made an urgent plea to residents in the hurricane's path to leave immediately.

"We are concerned about reports of people deciding to stay in areas under mandatory evacuation orders," he said during an update. "This is not hype, this is not hyperbole and I am not kidding ... Do not assume you can survive if you choose to stay."

He continued: "There will be overwhelming damage and likely, a heartbreaking loss of life."

Norcross is known for his credible reporting of extreme weather reports. His Miami coverage of Hurricane Andrew — the last Category 5 storm to hit the United States — was an invaluable source of information back in 1992. In short, the guy knows what he's talking about. 

And yet, the skepticism keeps on coming. We're also looking at you, Vanilla Ice. Listen to the experts, it's for your own good. And no, this guy is not a weather forecaster, nor is he an expert.

And no, this guy, who Jacksonville news anchor Ben Becker caught strolling down a very wet street holding a pizza, is not an expert. He too should leave. 

Donnie Wahlberg gets it. He seems to have stayed at home during Hurricane Sandy, which, he notes to Vanilla Ice, wasn't a great idea. 

Be smart and be safe bro, indeed! Stay updated on Hurricane Matthew via Mashable's live blog. 

WATCH: Hurricane Matthew rips a roof off