Dorian on Our Doorstep

Dorian+on+Our+Doorstep

Ricardo Rios, Staff Writer

Many have heard by now that Florida is on the path of a colossal hurricane. As of August 28, Hurricane Dorian is off the coast of Puerto Rico and seems to be headed on a path straight to Florida. It’s predicted to get even bigger once it reaches us and the forecast said it could grow as large as a category 3 hurricane when it reaches Florida. It’s expected to hit towards the end of the weekend on about Sunday.

Hurricane season is intense for Florida as well as neighboring Caribbean countries. Puerto Rico is one of the territories that got hit the worst and is still recovering from Hurricane Irma, which hit two years ago and caused devastating damage. This hurricane not only ravaged South Florida as well and resulted in a school shut down for about two weeks.

Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency for counties on the East Coast of Florida on Thursday. These counties include Baker, Bradford, Brevard, Broward, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Glades, Hendry, Highlands, Indian River, Lake, Martin, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Nassau, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Putnam, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Volusia, and Union.

In a statement, Governor DeSantis said:

“It’s important for Floridians on the East Coast to monitor this storm closely. Every Florida resident should have seven days of supplies, including food, water, and medicine, and should have a plan in case of disaster. I will continue to monitor Hurricane Dorian closely with emergency management officials. The state stands ready to support all counties along the coast as they prepare.”

The Palm Beach County School District announced a website to update students and parents in case schools close  like they did two years ago. In any case, be sure you stock up on food, water this weekend and watch the forecast for any new developments.