Hurricane Warning: Hurricane Milton Intensifies - Sandbag Distribution, Shelter Availability, and Preparedness Measures
Stay informed on hurricane preparations, shelter locations, and safety tips for Palm Bay residents.
October 8, 2024 - 11:30 AM EDT - Palm Bay, FL
Current Situation: Hurricane Milton is intensifying and is expected to escalate to a Category 5 storm as it approaches Florida. Brevard County is actively preparing for its arrival, with sustained winds of up to 29 mph, gusts up to 59 mph on Thursday, and rainfall totals of 5-12 inches anticipated in Palm Bay, with localized totals up to 18 inches.
Projected Path:
As of the latest forecast, Hurricane Milton is projected to make landfall on Florida's Gulf Coast on Wednesday night, likely near the Tampa Bay area. It will then move east-northeastward across the state through Thursday, with Palm Bay and surrounding areas expected to experience significant impacts starting Wednesday afternoon and continuing through Thursday. The storm's intensity is expected to bring sustained winds of 150 mph and higher gusts. Heavy rainfall and potential flooding are also anticipated, with the strongest winds and heaviest rain occurring on Thursday. A few tornadoes are also possible over central and southern Florida from late Tuesday through Wednesday night.
County and City Updates
Sandbag Distribution: The City of Palm Bay is offering sandbag pickup on Tuesday, October 8, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Fred Poppe Regional Park, weather permitting and while supplies last. The city provides bags and fills them for residents, with a limit of 10 sandbags per vehicle. Proof of residency is required. Brevard County also has sandbags available at four other locations. Additional empty bags and materials can be found at local hardware stores (while supplies last). If sand is unavailable, materials like mulch, potting soil, or small gravel can be used.
Shelters Open: Several shelters are available for those needing safe refuge, especially residents in low-lying areas or mobile homes:
Merritt Island High School
Astronaut High School
Walter Butler Community Center in Cocoa (Special Needs Shelter)
These shelters are equipped to accommodate residents throughout the storm. Please bring essential supplies, including food, bedding, and medications.
Service Changes and Closures:
City Facilities: Palm Bay’s non-essential city offices, including City Hall, will be closed from noon on Tuesday, October 8, through Thursday, October 10.
Schools: Brevard Public Schools will also be closed through Thursday. Schools are observing an early release schedule on Tuesday, and all after-school activities are canceled. Aftercare services will end at 5:00 PM.
Waste Collection: Republic Services will begin residential collection early, starting at 5:00 AM on Tuesday, October 8. Ensure that your trash, recycling, and yard waste are at the curb by this time.
Safety and Preparedness Recommendations
Evacuation Guidance: Currently, there are no mandatory evacuation orders in Brevard County. However, residents in Zone A, which includes barrier islands, mobile homes, and flood-prone areas, should stay vigilant and be prepared to relocate due to potential flooding and strong winds. Shelters are open for those who need them. A Storm Surge Warning is in effect for the east coast of Florida from Port Canaveral northward to the mouth of the St. Mary’s River.
Home Preparation: As Hurricane Milton approaches, secure your home before strong winds arrive. Put up hurricane shutters, make sure your emergency supply kit is stocked, and bring in any loose items from your yard. Do not trim trees or bushes at this time—debris can turn into dangerous projectiles. Also, clear storm drains to help prevent flooding.
Gather Essential Supplies: Ensure you have enough food, water, and medication to last at least three days. Don't forget flashlights, batteries, and important documents.
Stay Informed: Sign up for emergency alerts through Alert Brevard by texting BREVARDEOC to 888777. You can also find hurricane preparation guides at City of Palm Bay Hurricane Preparedness. For the latest updates, follow the City of Palm Bay on Facebook or sign up for eNotifications at City of Palm Bay News.
Community Reminder: This is a dangerous situation for Palm Bay and the greater central Florida region. We urge all residents to take precautions now, stay informed, and seek shelter if necessary. The Palm Bayer will continue to provide updates as we track Hurricane Milton's progress.
Stay safe, Palm Bay. We’re in this together.
For more information on Palm Bay news & events, be sure to visit The Palm Bayer.