Officials urge residents to evacuate before storm hits

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed preparations for an impending storm, emphasizing the importance of evacuation and safety measures for residents of Fort Myers Beach. The town manager announced a mandatory evacuation order set for 3 PM on Monday, urging residents to leave the area as soon as possible to avoid potential dangers associated with the storm.

Officials highlighted that the evacuation is in conjunction with Lee County's directives and stressed the need for residents to heed warnings based on lessons learned from previous storms, particularly Hurricane Ian. The council reiterated that staying behind could lead to serious consequences, as emergency services may not be able to assist those who choose to remain.

During the meeting, discussions also covered logistical concerns, including the availability of hurricane reentry passes for residents returning after the storm. These passes will be distributed at a local Target store, and officials encouraged residents to obtain them before the evacuation deadline. They assured that staff would be on hand to assist with any questions regarding the reentry process.

Additionally, the meeting addressed community concerns about home security during the evacuation. While officials noted that there are no foolproof methods to prevent break-ins, they suggested leaving signs indicating that homes are unoccupied and securing windows and doors as best as possible.

As the storm approaches, officials urged residents to stay informed through local news outlets and social media for updates on the situation. They reassured the community that they are prepared to assist those in need and emphasized the importance of communication during this critical time.