Sarah Brady
Updated on: October 16, 2024 11:44 pm GMT
As Hurricane Milton bears down on Florida’s west coast, residents are bracing for strong winds and life-threatening storm surges. The storm is expected to become a major hurricane by Monday, and with its rapid intensification, preparations are now more urgent than ever.
UCF Suspends Operations
In light of the approaching hurricane, the University of Central Florida (UCF) has announced that it will close all campuses and suspend classes from Tuesday, October 8, through Thursday, October 10. This decision allows students, faculty, and staff to prepare adequately for the storm.
- Closure Dates: UCF will suspend operations from October 8 to October 10.
- Normal Operations: Classes will resume at 6 a.m. on Friday, October 11, pending safety assessments after the storm.
UCF is advising all community members to take storm preparations seriously. “We encourage you to use this time to take storm preparations seriously before the onset of severe weather,” a university representative stated. The decision to close campuses reflects the school’s concern for the safety and well-being of its students and staff.
Storm Threat Overview
Hurricane Milton is not just a rainstorm; it poses significant risks to coastal areas. Key information about the hurricane’s current status includes:
- Current Category: Milton is rapidly intensifying and is expected to become a major hurricane.
- Locations Affected: The west coast of Florida is at high risk for damaging winds and intense storm surge.
The National Hurricane Center advises that residents should stay updated through local news and the National Weather Service for the latest forecasts.
Proper Preparations
As residents prepare for Hurricane Milton, here are essential steps to consider:
- Create a Family Emergency Plan: Discuss with your family where to go and how to communicate if you become separated.
- Gather Supplies: Stock up on non-perishable food, water, batteries, and medications.
- Secure Your Property: Bring in outdoor furniture and other objects that could become projectiles in high winds.
UCF’s Emergency Management team is in constant communication with local authorities and the National Hurricane Center, ensuring that the university receives timely updates and relays this information to the community effectively. They will utilize channels such as UCF Alert and social media platforms to keep everyone informed during the storm.
Resources for Students
UCF is proactively providing resources and guidance specifically for its students, especially those living in university housing. Here are some ways the university supports them:
- Regular Updates: The university will provide continuous updates regarding campus safety via official communication channels.
- Emergency Housing: Information on securing safe shelter options will be available for those needing assistance.
Students are encouraged to stay plugged into UCF Alert and the official UCF hurricane webpage at ucf.edu/hurricane for timely updates.
Looking Ahead
After the storm, UCF plans to assess campus and local conditions carefully. The university stated that they will provide more specific information about when standard operations will resume. “We will continue to closely monitor the latest forecasts and provide updates as necessary,” a university representative emphasized.
As Floridians prepare for Hurricane Milton, the focus on safety and preparedness is critical. Families are reminded to prioritize safety and ensure that they have plans in place should evacuations become necessary.
The potentially devastating impact of Hurricane Milton is a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of community preparedness. As the storm approaches, staying informed and following local guidelines will be crucial for ensuring safety.
Hurricane Milton is getting stronger, and UCF along with people in Florida are getting ready for the storm. It’s really important to prepare so we can keep ourselves and our homes safe. Everyone is encouraged to pay attention to the news, stay informed, and get ready for whatever challenges might come our way.
