An Executive Order has been signed declaring a State of Emergency for certain counties in the State of Florida, including Seminole County. 

State of Emergency

Local State of Emergency 

 Last Updated: October 6, 2024 12:15pm

CLOSURES

Seminole County Government Offices are open and operating at normal hours.

University of Central Florida - Closing Tuesday, October 8

 Last Updated: October 7, 2024 8:45am

Residents are encouraged to report property damage that occurs during hurricanes.

• Report damage using Damage Assessment Form

Damage assessment forms are critical for FEMA purposes. They help officials understand the severity and magnitude of damage to property, get assistance, and direct building inspectors to the appropriate areas.
 

 Last Updated: September 26, 2024 3:25pm

FLOODING SAFETY

• Turn Around, Don't Drown: Do not drive or walk through flood water. Vehicles will not protect you. They can be swept away or may stall.
• Keep Out of Flood Water: It can be contaminated with waste or chemicals that can cause health hazards. Dangerous objects and debris or animals (rodents, snakes) could also be hidden in the water. Do not play or float in flood water. Plus, as little as 6 inches of water can knock you off your feet.
• Prevent Electrical Hazards: Turn off electrical power, gas, and propane. NEVER touch a fallen power line. If you believe someone has been electrocuted, call 911.

RESOURCES

• Little Wekiva River near Altamonte Springs 
• St. Johns River at Lake Monroe (Sanford)
• Little Econ River near Oviedo
• Residents can visit msc.fema.gov to find out if their home is in a flood zone.

HOW TO READ HYDROGRAPHS

Hydrographs show how the river levels have changed over time at a specific location. Check the time along the bottom to see the current river level and predicted levels.

LEVELS:

• Action Stage: Time to prepare
• Minor Flooding: Minimal property damage
• Moderate Flooding: Some property damage and evacuations
• Major Flooding: Damage to structures and roads, significant evacuations
• Record Flooding: The highest level on record

 Last Updated: September 26, 2024 12:41pm

GENERATOR SAFETY

Generators produce carbon monoxide when used indoors or in poorly ventilated areas because they burn fuel without enough fresh air. Seminole County reminds residents that carbon monoxide, or CO, is an invisible, odorless, tasteless gas that is highly poisonous. The Florida Department of Health recommends the following precautions:

• Do not burn charcoal or gas grills inside a house, garage, vehicle, tent, or fireplace.
• NEVER use a generator indoors, including homes, garages, basements, crawl spaces, and other enclosed or partially enclosed areas, even those with ventilation. Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent CO build-up in the home.
• ALWAYS locate the unit at least 20 feet from your residence outdoors on a dry surface, away from doors, windows, vents, and air conditioning equipment that could allow CO to flow indoors. Follow the generator instructions.
• REMEMBER that you cannot see or smell CO. Portable generators can produce high levels of CO very quickly.
• If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air RIGHT AWAY. DO NOT DELAY.
• If you have a poisoning emergency, call your nearest Florida Poison Information Center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call 911 immediately.

• Have enough fuel on hand and ensure the stored fuel is not too old or degraded.  

• Test your generator for an extended period of time to make sure it works or have a professional inspect it.  

RESOURCES

Video: Generator Safety (English)

Video: Seguridad con el uso de Generadores (Español)

 Last Updated: September 25, 2024 10:55am

Mosquito populations can multiply in standing waters from flooding. For information on where aerial spraying will occur, please visit: www.seminolecountyfl.gov/ruralspray

For a mosquito spray request, please visit: www.seminolecountyfl.gov/mosquito

 Last Updated: September 26, 2024 3:24pm

Residents are encouraged to keep their utility account number and outage reporting numbers on hand to expedite reporting an outage during and following a storm. Your power service providers are responding to Hurricane Helene and its impacts.  Report power outages directly to your service provider. 

DUKE ENERGY 

Customers who experience an outage can report it by:

• Phone: Text OUT to 57801 or call 800-228-8485
• Online: Report Outage
• Duke Energy app: Get the Duke Energy app
• Visit Duke Energy’s Storm Center page for more resources.

FLORIDA POWER AND LIGHT (FPL)

Customers who experience an outage can report it by:

• Phone: Call 1-800-4-OUTAGE (1-800-468-8243)
• Online: Report Outage
• Visit FPL’s Storm Center page for more resources.

SPECTRUM ENTERPRISE

Customers who experience an outage can report it by:

• Phone: Call 1-888-812-2591
• Online: Spectrum

TECO/PEOPLES GAS

• If you suspect a natural gas leak, immediately move to safety – 300 feet or about the length of a football field – and call 911 then call 877-TECO-PGS (877-832-6747)
• Visit the Teco/Peoples Gas Storm Safety page for more resources.

DURING AND AFTER THE STORM

• If you anticipate an extended outage, consider moving yourself and your family – especially those with special needs – to an alternative location. Consider checking on others who may benefit from your assistance.
• Consider all downed power lines and anything touching them energized and DANGEROUS! Do not get near them and report the problem to your electric utility. Do not touch anything that is on or near a power line (i.e., trees or tree limbs, cars, ladders). Keep children and pets away from areas where lines may have fallen.
• Don't open freezers and refrigerators any more than absolutely necessary. Opening these appliances will allow food to thaw more quickly.
• During severe weather or power outages, turn off as many appliances and electronics as possible. After the power is restored, to help avoid damage, wait five to 10 minutes before turning them back on.
• If a power line falls across a car that you're in, stay in the car. If you MUST get out of the car due to a fire or other immediate life-threatening situation, do your best to jump clear of the car and land on both feet. Be sure that no part of your body is touching the car when your feet touch the ground.

FOOD SAFETY AFTER A POWER OUTAGE

When a storm causes a power outage, make sure your food is still safe to eat.

• Keep fridge and freezer doors closed as much as possible.
• After 4 hours without power, throw out refrigerated meat, dairy, and leftovers. Hard cheeses, uncut fruits & veggies, and non-creamy sauces like ketchup are OK to keep, but when in doubt, throw it out!
• A full freezer will hold a safe temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full). Refreeze or cook frozen food only if it still has ice crystals on it or remains at 40°F or below.
• Throw out anything with an unusual odor, color, or texture. Never taste food to determine if it is safe to eat.

MEDICATION/INSULIN SAFETY

• Keep insulin as cool as possible, but DO NOT FREEZE it. Keep out of direct heat & sunlight. Insulin in opened or unopened vials that have been stored at room temperature (59° F-86° F) can be used for up to 4 weeks.
• If insulin that has been stored above 86° F has to be used, monitor your blood sugar regularly.
• Replace all refrigerated drugs as soon as possible.
• Consult your pharmacist or doctor with questions about medication storage and maintaining a supply during a prolonged outage.

Find updated hurricane info at PrepareSeminole.org.

ASL/Deaf: - Reporting Power Outages Video

 Last Updated: September 26, 2024 4:08pm

Residents are encouraged to prepare for storms and severe weather events by doing the following:

MAKE A PLAN

Think about your family’s needs in the event of a disaster and make a plan before disaster strikes to make responding to an emergency faster and safer.

• AT HOME: Identify the safest area of your home in the event of severe weather; a lower-level space with no windows is preferred. Know how, when and where to shut off water, gas and electric at the main sources to your home. Check your insurance coverage – flood damage, for example, is not covered by homeowner's insurance.
• EVACUATION/SHELTERS: If your home is unsafe during a tropical storm or hurricane, consider staying with a friend or family member. Or, plan an evacuation route. Emergency shelters should be considered a last resort.
• CHILDREN: Contact your child's school or daycare to determine the facility's emergency notification and evacuation plans. Ask what type of authorization is required to release a child to someone else if you are not available to pick them up. Include your children in the planning process and discuss any fears they may have.
• ANIMALS: Make arrangements for pets or livestock in advance. Make sure your pet has a license tag and a collar, and use a break away collar for cats.
• COMMUNICATIONS: Consider purchasing a weather radio to alert you of severe weather conditions. 

GET A KIT

Prepare a disaster kit that contains all of the necessary supplies for several days or longer.

• WATER: Have one gallon of water per person/pet per day on hand for drinking, food preparation, and sanitation.
• FOOD: Plan for a five-day supply of non-perishable foods that do not require refrigeration and need minimal preparation and water.
• FIRST AID & MEDICATION: Have plenty of first aid supplies, non-prescription drugs, prescriptions, and other important health supplies like contact lenses or baby items on hand.
• IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS: Keep records, like insurance policies and passports, in watertight plastic containers if possible.
• CONTAINER/STORAGE: Store your emergency kit in a watertight container to prevent damage.

Get a complete disaster kit and first aid kit list at PrepareSeminole.org.

 Last Updated: September 25, 2024 10:55am

With Seminole County included in Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ State of Emergency ahead of the storm, Floridians are permitted to receive early prescription refills, including for medical grade oxygen.

Florida Statute 252.358 waives time restrictions on early refills during a state of emergency, to allow for citizens to prepare ahead of a storm. Authorized refills must be remaining on the prescription.

• ASL Video: Prescription Refills

 Last Updated: October 7, 2024 10:09am

SANDBAG LOCATIONS

Empty bags and dirt will be available to all residents of Seminole County; residents should bring their own shovel and gloves and be prepared to fill and load the bags themselves. Not all locations are staffed with crews who are able to provide assistance. Filled sandbags can weigh approximately 30 pounds, so it is recommended to bring a partner to assist. Seminole County sandbag operations are ongoing at the following locations:

LOCATIONS:
Boombah Sports Complex 
Overflow Parking Lot, 3325 Cameron Avenue, Sanford  
Open Monday, October 7, 8am-7pm 
Staff will be on-site and available to help those who need assistance. 

CITY LOCATIONS:

Please check with cities for the latest updates.

City of Altamonte Springs - Eastmonte Park 
830 Magnolia Drive, Altamonte Springs 
Open Monday, October 7, 8am-7pm
Unstaffed

City of Altamonte Springs - Westmonte Recreation Center 
624 Bills Lane, Altamonte Springs 
Open Monday, October 7, 8am-7pm
Unstaffed

City of Lake Mary - Lake Mary Sports Complex 
550 Rantoul Lane, Lake Mary 
Open Monday, October 7, 8am-6pm

City of Longwood - Candyland Sports Complex 
599 Longdale Ave, Longwood 
Open Monday, October 7, 8am-5pm
Unstaffed

City of Oviedo - Public Works
1725 Evans St, Oviedo 
Open Monday, October 7, 10am-7pm and Tuesday, October 8, 7am-12pm
Staff assistance available. 10 bag maximum 

City of Oviedo - Shane Kelly Park 
488 Waggin Trail, Oviedo 
Open Monday, October 7, 10am-7pm and Tuesday, October 8, 7am-12pm

City of Sanford - 18th Street Park *New Location*
430 W. 18th St, Sanford - Please enter at 16th St and Elm Ave.
Open 24 hours
Unstaffed 

City of Winter Springs - Central Winds Park 
1000 Central Winds Dr, Winter Springs 
Open Monday, October 7, 8am-5pm
Unstaffed 

SANDBAG DISPOSAL: Do not put filled sandbags on the curbside. They will not be picked up. If dry, consider keeping them through the end of Hurricane Season (November 30). Otherwise, empty the sand or dirt and dispose of bags in normal trash. They may also be brought to the Landfill. 
 

MORE INFORMATION:
VIDEO: Proper Sandbag Use

 Last Updated: October 7, 2024 11:18am

SHELTER OPENINGS

At this time there are NO open shelters.

 Last Updated: September 27, 2024 9:08am

• The Seminole County Special Needs Program is a voluntary program for residents, allowing Emergency Management to identify vulnerable individuals requiring extra assistance. Residents with special medical needs such as electricity to operate a medical device, refrigeration needs for medications, an enhanced level of wound care, or other eligible criteria should register at Seminole County Special Needs. A caregiver may also register on behalf of the resident.

• REGISTER: Seminole County Special Needs

• VIDEO: Special Needs Shelters 

  • Special Needs Shelters are last resort locations; residents should consider sheltering with friends and family. 

 Last Updated: October 7, 2024 10:16am

STAY INFORMED

• Stay informed about this storm by signing up for text alerts. Text "Storm2024" to 888-777. Information on sandbag operations, closures and other storm preparations will be sent via text.

• Call the Seminole County Citizen Information Line at (407) 665-0000 with storm-related questions. The Citizens Information line is available Monday-Friday, 8:00a.m.-5:00p.m. Closed on weekends. 
• Spanish speaking operators are available.
• Residents are also encouraged to register for emergency alerts through AlertSeminole, Seminole County’s emergency notification and warning system.
  • Those who register will receive emergency alerts via text, email, or voice call about a variety of potential public safety and environmental hazards, including weather events, evacuations, shelter-in-place orders, disruptive road closures, boil water notices, and other safety concerns.
  • Participating residents will receive time-sensitive messages specific to their specified home or business location within Seminole County. Residents can unsubscribe to alerts at any time through their account. Visit AlertSeminole.org to register.
     
• Follow Seminole County on Facebook, Instagram, X/Twitter, and Nextdoor for the latest updates.
   
• Watch Seminole Government Television (SGTV) at seminolecountyfl.gov/SGTV, on Spectrum Cable Channel 498, or on YouTube.

 Last Updated: September 26, 2024 6:45pm

SCHEDULED COLLECTION:

• Haulers are making scheduled garbage collections on Monday and Tuesday.
• If you have garbage, recycling, or yard waste that was not collected, please secure it or bring it directly to the Landfill or Central Transfer Station before the storm.
• All tipping fees will be waived at the Landfill. 
• There is no need to call Customer Service to report missed collection.

The Seminole County Landfill and Central Transfer Station open Monday and Tuesday, October 7 and 8 from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

For information about regular Solid Waste services, including trash/recycling collection and yard waste, click here.

 Last Updated: October 7, 2024 12:10pm

Para obtener más información, vaya a la parte abajo izquierda de esta página y seleccione "Language" y elija "Spanish". Tendrá toda la página en español. También puede llamar a nuestro número al 407-665-0000.

 Last Updated: September 26, 2024 3:16pm