Hurricane Milton Update: Palm Bay Prepares for Impact - Service Changes and Potential Evacuations
5:30 AM, 8 October 2024, update
Palm Bay, FL (October 8, 2024 - 5:30 AM EDT): Hurricane Milton, a powerful Category 4 hurricane with 155 mph winds, continues its approach towards Florida's Gulf Coast. While a slight weakening trend is expected, Milton is still forecast to be a major hurricane (Category 3 or stronger) at landfall, which is expected Wednesday. Palm Bay and central Florida remain under threat as the storm is projected to track eastward across the state after landfall.
As you can see, the latest models indicate that while the center of Hurricane Milton is most likely to pass near Tampa Bay, Palm Bay is still within the cone of uncertainty and could experience significant impacts.
The timeline suggests that Palm Bay will likely begin experiencing the effects of the storm Wednesday afternoon, with the potential for strong winds and heavy rainfall continuing through Thursday.
NHC and NWS Updates:
Category 4 Hurricane: The National Hurricane Center (NHC) confirms that Milton has weakened slightly to a Category 4 hurricane with 155 mph winds. However, it remains an extremely dangerous storm. (Source: www.nhc.noaa.gov)
Potential for Further Weakening: The NHC predicts that Milton may weaken further before making landfall, but it is still expected to be a major hurricane (Category 3 or stronger) when it reaches the coast.
Life-Threatening Impacts: The NHC has issued Hurricane Warnings and Storm Surge Warnings for portions of the Gulf Coast, with life-threatening storm surge inundation possible.
Heavy Rainfall and Flooding: The National Weather Service (NWS) in Melbourne is emphasizing the potential for heavy rainfall and flooding across central Florida, including Palm Bay. (Source: www.weather.gov/mlb)
City of Palm Bay Updates:
Republic Services Changes: Republic Services will begin trash, recycling, yard waste, and bulk collection at 5:00 AM on Tuesday, October 8th, in preparation for the storm. Residents should place items curbside the night before or by 5:00 AM on their scheduled service day. (Source: www.palmbayflorida.org)
City Facilities Closing: Non-essential City of Palm Bay offices and services, including City Hall, will close at noon on Tuesday, October 8th, and remain closed Wednesday and Thursday.
Flooding Report Form: The city is encouraging residents to report non-life-threatening flooding using an online form: https://www.palmbayflorida.org/Home/Components/Form/Form/99ea4dd1a07844a0bbaec5cb309e33bb/109. For life-threatening emergencies, call 911.
Brevard County Actions:
Potential Evacuations: While no mandatory evacuations are currently in place, residents should stay informed and be prepared for potential evacuations, especially those in Zone A (barrier islands, low-lying areas, and mobile homes). (Source: www.brevardfl.gov/emergencymanagement)
School Closures Extended: Brevard Public Schools will now be closed through October 10th. (Source: www.brevardschools.org)
Sandbag Distribution: Brevard County continues to offer sandbags at various locations. See our previous reporting for details [link to previous section].
Shelters Open: Brevard County has opened shelters at Merritt Island High School, Astronaut High School, and the Walter Butler Community Center (special needs shelter). (Source: www.brevardfl.gov/emergencymanagement)
What Palm Bay Residents Should Do Now:
Monitor Updates: Stay informed about the storm's progress by monitoring the NHC (www.nhc.noaa.gov), NWS Melbourne, and the City of Palm Bay (www.palmbayflorida.org).
Be Prepared for Potential Evacuation: Those in vulnerable areas should be prepared to evacuate if necessary.
Secure Your Home: Bring in outdoor objects, board up windows, and take all necessary precautions to protect your property from strong winds and potential flooding.
Gather Essential Supplies: Ensure you have an adequate supply of food, water, medications, batteries, flashlights, and other essential items.
Place Garbage and Recycling Curbside: Ensure your trash, recycling, yard waste, and bulk items are at the curb by 5:00 AM on Tuesday for collection.
This remains a dangerous situation. The Palm Bayer will continue to provide updates and vital information to help Palm Bay residents stay safe during Hurricane Milton.