Hurricane Jeanne Strengthening and Expected to Impact the East Coast of Florida

~ A Tropical Storm Watch Remains in Effect for the Central Bahamas. A Hurricane Watch May Be Required for the Northwestern Bahamas Later Today ~

TALLAHASSEE- The State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) remains at a Level 1 activation. Members of the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) continue to support areas impacted by Hurricanes Charley, Frances and Ivan and are monitoring the progress of Hurricane Jeanne.

“Hurricane Jeanne has taken a track looping back toward Florida,” said Florida Emergency Management Director Craig Fugate. “We are advising all citizens along the east coast of Florida to prepare and stay aware. Have a family disaster plan in place, gather supplies you may need, and stay tuned to local weather reports.”

The official forecast from the National Hurricane Center predicts Jeanne will begin a westward motion at about 6 mph later today. Maximum sustained winds are near 100 mph, with higher gusts. A slow increase in strength is possible during the next 24 hours. The five day forecast shows a potential landfall along the east coast of Florida.

Residents along the East Cost of Florida should continue to monitor National Weather Service forecasts and heed local official warnings for evacuations, flood warnings, high wind warnings, and severe thunderstorm or tornado warnings.

FLORIDIANS NEED TO PREPARE NOW -- All Floridians are encouraged to check their disaster preparedness kits to make sure they have enough supplies to last at least 72 hours after impact. Supplies should include bottled water, canned food and batteries, as well as, a 30 day supply of prescription medications. Residents should also fill their gas tanks in preparation.