KEY WEST, Fla. – Preparations are underway in the Florida Keys as residents brace for the possible impact of Tropical Depression Four.
Lynne Orloff at Florida Bay Outfitters in Key Largo says all her merchandise will be going to higher ground ahead of the heavy rain maker which could turn severe.
“It seems like a lot of people are pulling their boats out today, soaking up the last bit of good weather before we get the storm,” she said.
Out on the water, many boaters could already tell due to the choppy conditions.
Up north, from Tampa to Tallahassee, many say they’re ready for whatever the storm may bring.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has already declared a state of emergency ahead of the weather event forecasted for this weekend.
“Right now people should probably be focusing more on where do I need to stay if I need to evacuate,” said Florida Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie.
State officials also stressed that people should prepare in case of a possible insurance claim.
Florida’s Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis recommended taking pictures before the storm arrives.
“Now you have photographic evidence before the storm hits of what your house looked like on the inside and the outside,” he said.