PLANTATION, Fla. – Broward County emergency managers say not panic but to just stay vigilant as Hurricane Isaias makes its way toward Florida.
The county’s coastal areas are in a Hurricane Watch and Tropical Storm Warning, while inland areas are in a Tropical Storm Warning.
Parts of Broward could see anywhere from 2 to 4 inches of rain and possibly up to 6 inches in some areas, bringing the potential for flooding. Some coastal areas may also experience hurricane-force gusts of 75 mph or higher.
Officials say they are not planning to open up shelters, but they have the ability to do so if it becomes necessary, Mayor Dale Holness said.
“Look out for each other,” Holness said. “We are Broward strong, and again, we’ll get through this together.”
[WATCH REPLAY: Broward Mayor Dale Holness gives Hurricane Isaias updates]
As for shutters or sandbags, emergency leaders said to do what makes you feel safest.
“Always have a plan. Make sure that you’re watching the latest advisories and listening to local leaders,” said emergency management section manager Ron Guerrero. “We’re maintaining our vigilant stand, and the situation remains fluid.”
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport says it is still monitoring Isaias. Flights are operating as normal, but they are securing passenger boarding bridges that are not in use.
Port Everglades has closed to inbound ships. All COVID-19 testing sites are shut down until Tuesday morning, and drawbridges are going to be locked down on Friday evening.
Broward has also announced that its county-operated regional and neighborhood parks, nature centers, and natural areas will be closed Saturday with a plan to reopen Sunday after damage assessment. The Broward County Residential Drop-Off Centers for the disposal of household hazardous waste and electronics recycling will also be closed Saturday.
In Hallandale Beach and other cities, residents were stocking up on sand Friday morning, knowing that it would not go to waste even if not needed this weekend.
In Dania Beach, crews were focusing on removing any bulk trash near the roadways and cleaning out storm drains in flood-prone areas.