In a recent government meeting, officials discussed critical evacuation protocols and community preparedness in light of impending severe weather. The conversation highlighted the importance of proactive measures for residents living in flood-prone areas, urging them to evacuate voluntarily if they have safe alternatives.

Officials emphasized that while dredging efforts are ongoing, they cannot entirely prevent flooding in certain locations, such as downtown Fernandina. They reiterated the necessity for residents to heed evacuation recommendations, particularly for those in low-lying areas or those dependent on power, as local resources may be stretched thin during emergencies.

The meeting clarified that the current evacuation status is voluntary, but officials are closely monitoring the situation and may issue recommendations for mandatory evacuations within the next 24 to 48 hours, depending on weather forecasts. They stressed that residents should stay informed through official channels, such as 1nassau.com, and take any evacuation orders seriously.

Additionally, officials warned that if an evacuation order is issued, emergency services may not respond to calls from those who choose to remain in evacuated areas. This underscores the importance of following evacuation protocols to ensure personal safety and the safety of first responders.

As the community prepares for potential storms, officials urged residents to prioritize their safety and be ready to act on recommendations to avoid becoming stranded or in need of emergency assistance.