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Martin County now under hurricane watch as communities brace for flooding

Roughly 8-12 inches of rain and sustained tropical winds are expected, and since the ground is already saturated, flooding is expected to be a major issue
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MARTIN COUNTY, Fla. — Hurricane Milton is bringing rain and possible flooding with strong winds making landfall Wednesday.

Martin County officials told WPTV reporter Todd Wilson that they have finalized their plans and will adjust them accordingly, but in essence, they are prepared for whatever Hurricane Milton brings their way.

Martin County officials say they were in meetings all day Tuesday, making sure every aspect of the county is covered when the effects of Milton hit. So far, officials have not issued any evacuation orders.

TRACKING THE TROPICS: Hurricane Center | Hurricane Guide

WATCH: Martin County holds conference Tuesday evening in preparation for Milton's landfall

Martin County Hurricane Milton conference Oct. 8, 2024

Roughly 8-12 inches of rain and sustained tropical winds are expected. Since the ground is already saturated, flooding is expected to be a major issue.

A total of four shelters will be open, including a special needs shelter. Transportation will be provided for those who need it.

The Martin County Sheriff's Office said since there isn't an evacuation order, they're expecting to be busy. Sheriff William Snyder said it largely depends on how much power the county keeps or loses. Snyder said he has specially designated vehicles with chainsaws to help get fire rescue and Florida Power and Light in and out of neighborhoods.
      
County officials said cleanup will begin immediately once the storm has passed.
  
"We need access to those shelters, access to our hospitals, access to critical facilities and so clearing the roads you've heard the governor talk about the state of the initial push getting things off the road so that emergency equipment can come out of the area if needed too, that's very first thing we have to do," Martin County administrator Don Donaldson said.

County officials said if Martin County is severely impacted a disaster recovery center will be set up.

The Martin County School District will remain closed for the rest of the week.

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TERMS TO KNOW

TROPICAL STORM WATCH: An announcement that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are possible within the specified coastal area within 48 hours.

TROPICAL STORM WARNING: An announcement that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are expected within the specified coastal area within 36 hours.

HURRICANE WATCH: An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are possible somewhere within the specified coastal area. A hurricane watch is issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.

HURRICANE WARNING: An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are expected somewhere within the specified coastal area. A hurricane warning is issued 36 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.