Florida Keys under tropical storm warning ahead of Laura, but evacuation order lifted
Monroe County rescinded the mandatory evacuation order for people living on boats and in mobile homes, trailers or campers due to the latest weather forecast for Tropical Storm Laura.
On Monday morning, forecaster issued a tropical storm warning for parts of the Florida Keys, which are also under a coastal flood watch Sunday night through late Monday.
The island chain could see winds between 39 to 57 mph and up to one foot of storm surge through early Tuesday though there is still some uncertainty regarding Laura’s track and strength, according to the National Weather Service.
“General population shelters will not be opened at this time, but the sheltering plan remains in place if a need arises,” said county spokesman Kristen Livengood in a news release.
“Those who are staying in this type of shelter should seek to stay with friends or family or be prepared to shelter in place during the storm,” Livengood said.
“Those on boats should seek shelter on land,” Livengood said.
Recreational vehicles, trailers, and other similar vehicles that are located outside of Monroe County should not try to enter the island chain until Tuesday, according to the county.
Monroe released the evacuation order Friday in advance of Laura, ordering liveaboards and mobile home dwellers to leave their homes by noon Sunday.
At the time, the Florida Keys was in the cone of the storm. That has changed.
County leaders Sunday still cautioned people in the Keys to prepare for severe weather.
‘Residents and visitors should be aware of hazardous weather conditions in the Florida Keys starting Monday morning through Tuesday morning,” Livengood said.
Monroe County government offices will be closed on Monday, along with courts.
Airports will continue with normal operations through Sunday and will be monitoring weather for Monday flight schedules. Hospitals will remain open.
Lower Keys Medical Center, on Stock Island, said Friday it had no plans to close but did cancel elective surgeries and outpatient procedures for Monday.
“We have the necessary supplies, including our generator, backup and fuel, to continue our services without interruption,” said spokeswoman Lynn Corbett-Winn.
