Volusia County Urges Storm Preparation and Continues Sandbag Distribution as Hurricane Milton Approaches

Posted On: October 6, 2024

After making landfall near Tampa, Hurricane Milton is projected to bring tropical storm-force winds with possible gusts reaching hurricane strength to Volusia County on Wednesday. Widespread power outages are anticipated, and rainfall totals between 6 to 8 inches are expected from Wednesday afternoon through Thursday morning, with localized areas potentially receiving higher amounts.

A pre-filled, drive-thru sandbag location at the Volusia County Branch Jail, 1300 Red John Drive, Daytona Beach, will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday, and Volusia County will provide self-service sandbag distribution sites from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the following locations:

• Fire Rescue Station 22, Oak Hill Station, 213 N. U.S. Highway 1, Oak Hill
• Fire Rescue Station 23, Turnbull Station, 1850 Pioneer Trail, New Smyrna Beach
• Fire Rescue Station 34, Indian Mound Station, 1700 Enterprise-Osteen Road, Osteen

Residents may receive 10 sandbags at each location, should bring a shovel, and are reminded not to block the fire station bays at any of the locations to ensure emergency personnel can quickly respond to emergencies if needed. All Volusia County sandbag sites are open to all residents, regardless of whether they live in an incorporated city or an unincorporated area, with proof of Volusia County residency. A comprehensive list of sandbag locations, including those operated by the municipalities, may be found on the Volusia Emergency Management app.

The Emergency Management Division has postponed its Local Mitigation and Floodplain Management Planning meetings scheduled for Oct. 7 and 8 due to preparations for Hurricane Milton. New dates and times for the rescheduled meetings will be announced soon.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has enacted a no-wake zone along the St. Johns River in response to current water levels and anticipated ongoing rainfall over the next few days stemming from Hurricane Milton. Signage has been changed along the river to inform the public of the new regulation. This measure is important to prevent boat wakes from pushing water onto nearby properties.

Volusia County staff remain in close coordination with state officials and the National Weather Service to monitor potential local impacts. Residents are encouraged to stay informed by downloading the Volusia Emergency Management app, following the County's social media channels, or visiting www.volusia.orgfor updates.