Rick Scott Offers Update on Bad Weather in North Florida

Gov. Rick Scott is heading out to Pensacola to meet with leaders in response to the poor weather conditions impacting the Panhandle and the Big Bend.

Early this morning I issued an executive order declaring a state of emergency for 26 counties to facilitate the rapid response of state and local agencies in supporting families impacted by heavy rains, Scott said. Our message to Floridians is this: Please pay attention to your local weather. These types of storms can spawn tornadoes and other quick-moving inclement weather. Also stay away from high water. Do not try to cross high water. It can be extremely dangerous. Again, all state resources are standing ready to support local officials in the impacted areas and I plan to travel to the Panhandle later today to get a briefing from first responders on the ground.

This is a slow moving weather system that will continue east through our state, and families should take precautions to secure essential supplies should they lose power or cant use the roads, Scott added. Families should listen to their local leaders and follow their instructions. Were continuing to work with local leaders on the ground to give them the support they need to keep families safe and get them back on their feet.

To support our local leaders, early this morning I instructed the National Guard to deploy 24 high-water vehicles to the impacted counties to assist with rescue and recovery operations, Scott added.