TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Gov. Rick Scott has a simple message for Florida residents as Hurricane Matthew gets closer -- evacuate.
Scott said Thursday that he wants the 1.5 million residents under mandatory evacuation orders to follow the law.
"This is serious," Scott said.
The governor said time is running out for Floridians to seek shelter from the powerful Category 3 storm.
Scott said there is no reason not to leave.
"Do not surf," Scott said. "Do not go on the beach. This will kill you."
Scott said all residents on Florida's Atlantic coast should expect to lose power, "possibly for a long period of time."
"We don't know exactly where this storm's going," Scott said. "Don't trust this track."
Scott also warned of heavy rain, strong rip currents, beach erosion, tornadoes and storm surge.
"Unfortunately, this is going to kill people," Scott said.
Scott said he's also requested that President Barack Obama declare a federal emergency declaration in 26 Florida counties.
"Evacuate, evacuate, evacuate," Scott said. "Be prepared. Don't take a chance."
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