Tropical Depression 9 is making its way toward Florida and will bring heavy rain to our area. It has already prompted a Hurricane Watch on the Gulf Coast.
The good news for The Villages and surrounding area is that overnight the National Hurricane Center predicted a path that pushed the system slightly more northward and away from our area.
“East-Central Florida impacts are currently forecasted to be heavy rainfall of three to seven inches through Thursday with rainy, squally weather and a chance for isolated tornadoes,” said Tommy Carpenter, Manager of Lake County Emergency Management. “There is still some uncertainty in the forecast as to how strong Tropical Depression 9 will develop and the entirety of impacts to Lake County, so we are urging residents to make proper preparations, remain weather aware, ensure they have a working NOAA weather radio and monitor local media outlets.”
It was designated a tropical depression Sunday after a Hurricane Hunter reconnaissance mission finally found a sufficiently organized low-pressure center with collocated shower and thunderstorm activity.
“Whether this is your first tropical storm or you’re a seasoned veteran of past hurricanes, you need to take this storm seriously and be prepared for the very real threats it could produce,” said Florida Division of Emergency Management director Bryan Koon. “Make sure your disaster supply kit is fully stocked and you have a safety plan for yourself, your family and for your workplace or business.”
