By Boca Vibe
Hurricane Milton Tracks Slightly South, Intensifies; Some Evacuations in Palm Beach County
Hurricane Milton was forecast to track further south than previously expected Tuesday, prompting a hurricane watch to be issued north of Palm Beach County and a minimal number of evacuations within the county. Only a tropical storm warning was in effect for Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties as of 5 PM Tuesday. Palm Beach County issued an evacuation order for Zone A, encompassing low-lying coastal areas and mobile home residents, effective Wednesday morning. The shift in Milton’s projected path brought a sigh of relief to many Boca Raton residents, who had been anxiously monitoring the storm’s progress throughout the day.
Shifting Forecast Brings Some Relief to Boca Raton
The revised forecast, issued by the National Hurricane Center (NHC) at 2 PM, showed Hurricane Milton, a Category 2 storm with sustained winds of 105 mph, taking a slightly more westerly track. While still posing a significant threat to South Florida, the updated projection lessened the immediate risk of a direct hit for Boca Raton and other inland areas of Palm Beach County. This shift, though welcome news, didn’t eliminate the need for vigilance. Mayor Scott Singer urged residents to remain prepared and closely monitor weather updates.
“While the latest forecast is more favorable for Boca Raton than earlier projections, we cannot afford to be complacent,” Mayor Singer stated in a press conference held at Boca Raton City Hall. “We are continuing to prepare for the worst-case scenario. The potential for flooding, particularly in low-lying areas near the Intracoastal Waterway, remains a serious concern.”
Preparations Underway Across Palm Beach County
Across Palm Beach County, preparations for Hurricane Milton were well underway. Grocery stores reported a surge in shoppers stocking up on essential supplies, with shelves of bottled water, canned goods, and batteries largely emptied by late afternoon. Gas stations experienced similar rushes, with long lines forming throughout the day. Florida Atlantic University (FAU) in Boca Raton announced the cancellation of all classes and activities starting Wednesday, urging students residing in evacuation zones to leave campus as soon as possible.
Palm Beach County’s Emergency Operations Center activated its full complement of staff, coordinating with local law enforcement and first responders to ensure a swift and effective response to potential emergencies. Sandbag distribution centers opened across the county, including several conveniently located throughout Boca Raton, though many reported long lines as residents sought to protect their properties from potential flooding.
Evacuation Orders and Shelters
The Palm Beach County Emergency Management Department issued mandatory evacuations for Zone A, encompassing areas particularly vulnerable to storm surge and flooding. This includes residents of mobile home parks and those living in low-lying coastal areas. While the evacuation order for Boca Raton specifically wasn’t as extensive as initially feared, the city activated its emergency shelters at Boca Raton Community High School and Spanish River Community High School to accommodate those needing refuge. The city also established a network of transportation options for residents needing assistance evacuating.
“We are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all our residents,” stated County Administrator Verdenia Baker. “We urge everyone in designated evacuation zones to heed the order and seek shelter as soon as possible. Time is of the essence.”
Mizner Park and Other Boca Raton Businesses Prepare
In the heart of Boca Raton, Mizner Park, a vibrant hub of shopping, dining, and entertainment, began preparations for the storm. Businesses boarded up windows and secured outdoor furniture, taking proactive steps to minimize potential damage. Many restaurants announced temporary closures, prioritizing the safety of their staff and patrons. The sense of cautious preparation was palpable throughout the usually bustling area, replaced by a sense of quiet anticipation.
The iconic Royal Palm Place shopping center also took precautionary measures, implementing a similar strategy as Mizner Park. This proactive approach reflects the collective effort of Boca Raton’s businesses to safeguard their properties and contribute to the community’s overall preparedness during Hurricane Milton’s approach.
Impact on Transportation and Public Services
Palm Tran, the public transportation system serving Palm Beach County, announced adjustments to its schedule, anticipating potential service disruptions due to the storm. Several bus routes were suspended, and commuters were advised to check the Palm Tran website for updates. The city of Boca Raton also suspended non-essential city services, redirecting resources toward emergency preparedness and response.
Local airports, including Palm Beach International Airport, are bracing for potential flight cancellations and delays. Travelers are urged to monitor flight statuses with their respective airlines before heading to the airport. The potential for power outages also prompted the city to prepare backup generators for critical infrastructure, including hospitals and emergency services facilities.
Community Response and Resilience
Despite the uncertainty and potential disruption, the community spirit in Boca Raton remains strong. Neighbors are helping neighbors, checking in on elderly residents, and assisting with preparations. Social media platforms are buzzing with information sharing, updates, and expressions of mutual support. This collective spirit of resilience and community engagement underscores Boca Raton’s capacity to navigate the challenges posed by Hurricane Milton.
The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office increased patrols across the county, ensuring public safety and assisting with evacuations. They also urged residents to remain vigilant, to avoid unnecessary travel, and to report any emergencies promptly.
Looking Ahead
As Hurricane Milton continues its trajectory toward South Florida, Palm Beach County residents remain on high alert. The latest forecast offers a slightly improved outlook for Boca Raton, but the potential for significant impacts remains. Continued vigilance, adherence to official guidance, and the collective community effort will be crucial in mitigating the storm’s impact and ensuring a safe and swift recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What areas of Boca Raton are under evacuation orders? A: As of Tuesday evening, only Zone A areas are under mandatory evacuation orders in Palm Beach County. This includes low-lying coastal areas and residents of mobile home parks. Check the Palm Beach County Emergency Management website for specific details on affected areas within Boca Raton. Q: Where can I find sandbags and other emergency supplies in Boca Raton? A: Several sandbag distribution centers have been set up throughout Boca Raton. Check the City of Boca Raton website or social media channels for the most up-to-date locations and availability. Be aware that long lines are expected. Want more Boca updates?
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