Florida Elected Officials Unite in Preparation for Hurricane Ian

Hurricane Ian is blowing its way to Florida, expecting to make landfall this mid-to-late this week. Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) has already declared a state of emergency for all 67 Counties and called for the deployment of 2,500 National Guard. Monday morning, Gov. DeSantis tweeted a reminder to Floridians to have proper preparation and supplies ready for the coming days.

"#Ian has strengthened into a hurricane and is expected to become a major hurricane as it moves through the Gulf. I encourage Floridians to ensure they are prepared and that their emergency supply kit is stocked with supplies. Follow @FLSERT for updates," state DeSantis

Sen. Rick Scott (R) urgently calls on residents in areas marked as evacuation zones to leave immediately, reminding us that "Florida has the best emergency management pros in the world."

Similarly, Sen. Marco Rubio (R) says that the threat of storm surges expected to come with Ian's arrival "is one of the most potentially dangerous scenarios hurricane experts have long feared," and emphasizes the need to "PLEASE TAKE THESE ORDERS SERIOUSLY"

Finally, Florida CFO Jimmy Patronis also points out that the speed of Ian's wind is expected to slow down upon making landfall, "that means prolonged storm surge and more rainfall."

Tampa Bay's Rep. Kathy Castor (D-14) reminds her constituents to receive text updates at 888-777 from the City of Tampa Bay and provides a link for Hillsborough area residents.

Meanwhile, Rep. Darren Soto (D-9) says that thanks to President Biden's emergency authorization, FEMA and DHS will be able to coordinate relief efforts. "We are grateful for President Biden's quick response to help our state."

Rep. Carlos G. Smith (D-49) informs Orange County residents that Barnett Park, Bithlo Community Park, Downey Park, Meadow Woods Park, and West Orange Recreational Complex are offering sandbags to stop flooding.

The Floridian would also like to remind our readership to pay attention to local officials' advice, make necessary preparations, and follow as many updates as you can.