St. Johns County officials have ordered mandatory evacuations for several areas ahead of Hurricane Milton’s landfall.
Residents in Evacuation Zones A, B, and F (south of State Road 206) must leave their homes starting at 8 a.m. Wednesday. Those living in boats, RVs, and mobile homes are also required to evacuate.
To help those displaced, the county is opening three shelters:
- Medical needs shelter – Freedom Crossing Academy, 1365 Shetland Drive, St. Johns
- Pet-friendly shelter – Southwoods Elementary School, 4750 FL-206, Elkton
- General population shelter – Pedro Menendez High School, 580 FL-206 West, St. Augustine
Residents can check their evacuation zones by entering their home address [at this link]. For questions, call (904) 824-5550.
Officials Warn of Dangerous Storm Surges
At a press conference Tuesday, St. Johns County Sheriff Robert Hardwick urged residents to take the warnings seriously.
“It’s going to wreak havoc on the entire state of Florida, including us here in St. Johns County,” Hardwick said.
Storm surges of up to 5 feet are expected in coastal areas and along the St. Johns River. High winds could impact the entire county, and curfews may be put in place depending on the storm’s severity.
St. Augustine Fire Chief Carlos Aviles warned that residents in flood-prone areas should expect severe flooding. Vulnerable neighborhoods include Davis Shores, Lincolnville, Lake Maria Sanchez, Oyster Creek, Polarwood, Nelmar Terrace, and Florida Avenue.
City Closures and Parking Updates
- Parking fees waived at the downtown garage for those needing higher ground (fewer than 200 spots remained as of noon Monday).
- City and county offices closed Wednesday and Thursday.
Officials continue to monitor Hurricane Milton and urge residents to prepare, stay informed, and evacuate if required.