Eta to Impact Volusia County; County Under Tropical Storm Watch.

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

Hurricane Eta is forecasted to make landfall just north of Tampa before making a North, Northeastern track across the state. Eta is forecasted to weaken to a tropical depression after making landfall.

As of Wednesday afternoon, Volusia County is under a Tropical Storm Watch and the effects of the storm system are anticipated on Thursday. Sustained winds are forecast at 15 to 20 mph, reaching 25 to 30 mph in the most northwest part of the county. Passing squalls could produce gusts up to 45 mph. One to 2 inches of rain is expected, with higher amounts in pockets. There is a risk for tornadoes, with the highest chance in the northwest portion of the county.

“If you haven’t done so already, secure items around your property—take down wind chimes, flags, and hanging plants, and move trash cans and lawn furniture indoors,” said Jim Judge, Volusia County’s emergency management director. “If you already did this for the first passing of Eta on Monday, wait to put things back out. As we always say, storms are unpredictable, and any change in the track can make a difference with conditions for our county.”

Officials from Volusia County Emergency Management will continue to closely monitor Hurricane Eta and will work in conjunction with the Florida Division of Emergency Management and the National Weather Service out of Melbourne.

According to a release put out by the county, Trash cans and port-o-lets removed from the beach in preparation for Monday’s inclement weather will not be replaced until after the passing of Eta. Damage has been reported at the north jetty in Ponce Inlet, making it difficult to access. Beach driving may be permitted Thursday but is likely to close by early afternoon in advance on the 5:14 p.m. high tide. Beach Safety will fly the red flag through the weekend, indicating high surf and strong rip currents.

Large amounts of seaweed can already be found along the beach and this is only expected to increase. Because of the time of year, small turtles, called washback’s, are often caught in this seaweed. Individuals who find washback’s should not put the animal back in the ocean or water. Instead, make sure the turtle is out of harm’s way in a quiet, dry, shaded area and call Beach Safety at 386-239-6414. Between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m., call the Volusia Sheriff’s Office at 386-248-1777, ext. 6.

Residents can prepare and stay informed for this and future emergencies by downloading the Volusia County EM app, available free on the Google Play or App Store. Residents can also follow Volusia County Emergency Management on Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates related to Volusia County.