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Gov. DeSantis expands state of emergency to include all 67 counties in Florida

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Posted at 11:37 AM, Aug 29, 2019
and last updated 2019-08-29 19:17:06-04

Gov. Ron DeSantis is urging Floridians to prepare now with Hurricane Dorian just days away from impacting the state.

On Thursday, the governor updated a state of emergency to now include all 67 counties in Florida. That declaration allows local governments and emergency management agencies to have time, resources, and flexibility to get prepared.

RELATED: Latest on Hurricane Dorian

"This could have an effect in virtually ever part of the state," the governor said at the National Hurricane Center in Miami on Thursday.

Gov. DeSantis advised residents to have seven days worth of food, water, and medicine, and know your evacuation zone if you're forced to evacuate.

"Know which evacuation routes are available to you," said Gov. DeSantis. "Heed the call and evacuate if you’re asked to."

The governor said trucks are bringing in more fuel from out of state so Florida drivers can fill up their tanks. He added the state is working with stores like Walmart and Publix to make sure they are well stocked with water.

"My executive order relaxed restrictions so more fuel can be brought in for the folks here in the state of Florida," Gov. DeSantis said.

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The governor said FPL is mobilizing resources to prepare for power outages from Hurricane Dorian, and 15 Urban Search and Rescue teams are on standby for deployment to respond to any emergencies.

"There’s no way you can have a storm of this significance and not lose power. So just prepare for that," the governor said.

Gov. DeSantis also advised people to be familiar with your generator if you plan to use one, and ask for help from neighbors if need be.

The governor added he's been in contact with President Donald Trump, who's pledged to help Florida in any way.

"Make sure you’re using that generator properly. Do not let the exhaust get into your home, that can be fatal," the governor said.

The governor urged people to stay on top of school closures. You can find the latest school closure information in South Florida by clicking here.

MORE: Para cobertura en español sobre el huracán La Guia News

Here are some other helpful resources for Floridians:

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