Manatee County Shelters in Place for Ian’s Arrival

Manatee County Shelters in Place for Ian’s Arrival
Posted on 09/28/2022
Press Release NoticeMANATEE COUNTY, FL (September 28, 2022) – Now we wait. With more than 100,000 residents and visitors ordered to leave Manatee County Level A and B evacuation zones, Public Safety officials say we should remain sheltered in place during Ian’s approach.

As of 8 a.m., there were 2,528 people registered at Manatee County’s 17 storm shelters.

This morning, the strengthening major hurricane is moving toward the north-northeast near 9 MPH. This general motion, along with a reduction in forward speed, is forecasted today, followed by a turn toward the north on Thursday. On the forecast track, the center of Ian is expected to approach the west coast of Florida within the hurricane warning area this morning and move onshore later today.

While the projected path has moved further south of Manatee County, the potential danger to people and property remains high. Because of that, the County has deployed a series of “First-in-Teams.”

These seven teams—fully-staffed and outfitted with a Fire Truck, Bulldozer, Bus and EMS Unit—are staged at strategic locations around the county, so that once the winds subside, they can make initial assessments and rescues if necessary and then aid in recovery efforts.

“We are committed to this response,” said Manatee County Administrator Dr. Scott Hopes. “This is the best way to get the assets in place to assist our residents and visitors as soon as possible. This is what we have been preparing for.”

While the strong winds have already begun, forecasters say these conditions will likely continue through Thursday. Officials are insistent that citizens remain calm and patient as the slow-moving storm crosses the state.

For more information on the storm, please go to mymanatee.org/manateeready