This page was last updated on Wednesday, November 9, 2022.

I am continuing to monitor the path of Tropical Storm Nicole and will continue to post updates as they become available.  Check back for more information. Floridians are tough, and we've been through this before. Be aware, listen to the warnings from local officials and stay safe.

Jump to:

I. Information and Emergency Alerts

II. Steps to Prepare

III. Emergency Declaration 

IV. In Case of Power Outage

V. In Case of Flooding

Information and Emergency Alerts:

• Sign up for emergency and weather alerts: Download the FEMA mobile app for weather alerts and maps of open shelters, among other important resources.  Sign up for emergency alerts in Martin County, Palm Beach County or St. Lucie County.

• Familiarize yourself with county-wide information and resources that are available including shelters and alerts in your area:
  
  • Martin County
  • Palm Beach County
  • St. Lucie County

  For more information, here are additional resources that you may find helpful:

• The National Hurricane Center: This website provides up-to-date weather information on hurricanes.  You can also find additional information from the National Weather Service.
• FloridaDisaster.org: This website includes information on how to plan and prepare for a hurricane in Florida, the latest news about hurricanes, information on local shelters and more.

↑ Return To Top ↑

Steps to Prepare:

• Know where to go: If you are ordered to evacuate, know the local hurricane evacuation routes to take and have a plan for where you can stay.
• Update your disaster kit: Make sure to have a seven-day supply of non-perishable food and bottled water, a battery-operated radio, a flashlight, extra batteries, cash, medicines, a first aid kit, pet foods, and important family documents.  If you are not in an area that is advised to evacuate and you decide to stay in your home, plan for adequate supplies in case you lose power or water for several days.
• Make a family emergency communication plan: This plan should include the telephone number of a family member or friend outside the area - a point of contact in the event of separation when a storm hits.
• Get your home ready: Cover windows with storm shutters or plywood and store outside items like lawn furniture and trash cans to prevent them from being moved by high winds.
• Fill your gas tank: Make sure your car has a full tank of gas in the event that you are ordered to evacuate to safety.
• Don’t forget your pets: Bring them indoors and maintain direct control of them.  Prepare an emergency kit for your pets with leashes or carriers, food, water, bowls and photos of you with your pet in case you are separated.

↑ Return To Top ↑

Emergency Declaration:

On November 7, 2022, Governor Ron DeSantis requested, and President Joe Biden issued, an emergency declaration for the State of Florida as Tropical Storm Nicole gained strength off of Florida's east coast.  As a result, emergency federal aid will be available to supplement state and local response efforts for emergency protective measures and debris removal.  No individual assistance is available at this time.

↑ Return To Top ↑

In Case of a Power Outage:

• REPORT the power outage to your power company. 
  • Florida Power & Light Company (FPL):
    • Report online or call 1-800-4-OUTAGE (1-800-468-8243).
    • Track the outages on the Power Tracker map.
    • You can sign up for alerts here.
    • Here are some additional resources.
  • Fort Pierce Utility Authority (FPUA): 
    • Call 772-466-7703.
    • Track the outages on the Outage map.
    • You can sign up for alerts here.
    • Here are some additional resources.
• STAY AWAY from flooding, downed power lines and debris.
• DO NOT use a generator indoors. It can be deadly.  Use a generator outdoors at least 20 feet away from windows, doors and vents.  Do not refuel your generator while it is hot or still running.

↑ Return To Top ↑

In Case of Flooding (from Ready.gov):

• Pay attention to authorities for information and instructions. Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
• Avoid driving except in emergencies.
• Wear heavy work gloves, protective clothing and boots during clean up and use appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris. 
• People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled.
• Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
• Be aware that snakes and other animals may be in your house.
• Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. Turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock if it is safe to do so.
• Avoid wading in floodwater, which can be contaminated and contain dangerous debris.
• Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.
• Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machinery ONLY outdoors and away from windows.

↑ Return To Top ↑