Blog - Nassau County Chamber

Nassau County Evacuation Order Lifted

9/30/2022

September 30, 2022
Press Release #11
Evacuation Order Lifted

As of 8:30 a.m., the evacuation order for Nassau County has been lifted. While the order has been lifted, there may be conditions specific to your area that may prevent you from going home. Officials are in the community conducting damage and safety assessments.

The majority of deaths and injuries take place after the storm has passed. Protect yourself by following the below tips:

If you find damages, please report them immediately to Crisis Track at www.OneNassau.com
Do not enter your structure if you arrive to find damages. Call a contractor to assess it.
Watch for wildlife that may have been displaced during the storm (alligators, snakes, etc.)
Watch for and avoid downed power lines and assume that they are still “live”
If you encounter a traffic light that it not operating, treat it like a 4-way stop
If you have propane or natural gas, your pilot may need to be re-lit. However, if you smell gas, call 911
Check items in your refrigerator to ensure they have not spoiled
Obey “road closed” signage
Turn around, don’t drown. There could be road damage that is not visible to you. Vehicles can be easily carried away.
Follow boil water notices issued by your utility company (if any)
If you find water in your home, contact a professional to assist in removal. Open windows and doors to assist in ventilation.
Stay away from standing water. Water could be charged from downed power lines and you could be at risk of being electrocuted.
If you encounter flood water, be sure to wash properly as you could have been exposed to contaminates.
Never use a generator in your home
Beware of scammers. Never give out information such as policy numbers, coverage details or any personal information to anyone showing up at your door or contacting you by phone.

If you have any questions, please contact Nassau County Emergency Management at (904) 548-0900.

Update on Tropical Storm Ian: Storm Downgraded but Threats Still Exist

9/29/2022

September 29, 2022
Press Release #9
Update on Tropical Storm Ian
STORM DOWNGRADED BUT THREATS STILL EXIST

Hurricane Ian was downgraded overnight to a Tropical Storm. However, the storm’s current track does not exclude Nassau County from the projected storm surge. Yesterday, sea levels in Nassau County were already a foot higher than normal due to the Nor’easter we’ve been experiencing. The first bands of the storm have not reached Nassau County yet. The storm is still projected to bring another 3-6 feet of storm surge along the coast over the next 48 hours.

At this time, we would like to urge all residents to remain in place. Even if the skies clear temporarily, trailing winds are still a threat as it is projected that Nassau County will experience tropical storm force winds speeds.

Please resist the temptation to drive around the county or to begin working in your yards. Based on statistics, most injuries and deaths occur post storm. Please stay safe!

SHAVE BRIDGE
There are no plans to close the Shave Bridge. However, if winds reach 39 mph sustained (continuous for 1 minute), traffic will temporarily be stopped until the wind drops below 39 mph. We have officers monitoring wind speeds continuously. As of approximately 11:30 a.m., winds were at 30 mph. We will do our best to notify the public if we anticipate a temporary closure.

TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN
If you do need to leave your home and you see standing water on the roads, please do not attempt to drive through it. Even if you are familiar with the road, there’s always the possibility of the road being damaged underneath. Further, there’s no way to know the depth of the water. Remember that it only takes a few feet of water to carry a vehicle away. This includes trucks and SUVs.

SELF-REPORT DAMAGES
To report damages to property resulting from the storm, please be sure to self-report. This includes anything life threatening or dangerous to public safety including flooding, live downed power lines, large branches and other debris in the road. Self-report by visiting: https://bit.ly/NassauSelfReport.

STAY UDPATED
Please continue to remain vigilant and follow public safety announcements. They can be heard on NOAA Weather Radio; Local radio stations 89.9 FM, 104.5 FM and 690 AM; and local news stations Channels 4, 12, 30 and 47.

Information related to the storm can also be found at www.OneNassau.com. Follow Emergency Management on social media at www.facebook.com/NassauEM or at www.twitter.com/NassauEM.
If you have any questions, please contact Nassau County Emergency Management at (904) 548-0900. We have staff and volunteers working in the call center 24/7 until further notice.

City of Fernandina Beach Post-Storm Tree Removal

9/29/2022

Post-Storm Tree Removal: What should you do?

A property owner has the right to immediately remove any tree damaged by disease, fire, windstorm, lightning, or other acts of nature, which pose an imminent danger to life or property. There is no fee for emergency tree removals. We strongly encourage property owners to take pictures of any trees requiring emergency removal prior to its removal to keep for your records. If you have any questions, please call the City’s Planning and Conservation Department at (904) 310-3480.

Important Facts:

The City of Fernandina Beach tree protection and permitting requirements only apply to trees that are 5” (five inches) or greater in diameter at breast height measured 4 ½ feet from the base of the tree. Smaller diameter trees can be removed without a permit.
If a protected tree has been damaged but does not pose an immediate safety hazard, the property owner should document the damage showing the need to remove the tree and contact the City’s Arborist or a 3rd party arborist to obtain a hazard risk assessment before the tree is removed. The City’s Arborist, Dave Neville, can be contacted at dneville@fbfl.org or at 904-310-3480 if you need assistance.
Property owners are cautioned to deal only with licensed contractors. The City cannot issue recommendations or referrals of a specific contractor for removal. Business licensing information can be verified through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation website search feature at https://www.myfloridalicense.com/wl11.asp?mode=0&SID=
The City suggests that the property owner obtain the cost of all work in writing before the work is started and the work statement clearly states the quantity of work that will be done, payment terms and how debris removal will be handled.

Hurricane Ian Damage Reporting

9/29/2022

9/28/22 @ 4:35 p.m.
DAMAGE REPORTING

To report damage to property as a result of the storm please use this request form. This includes anything life-threatening or dangerous to public safety, such as flooding, live power lines down, large branches or other debris in the road.

Click here to access the reporting system.

If you have any questions, please contact Nassau County Emergency Management at (904) 548-0900.

The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity Activates Business Damage Assessment Survey to Evaluate Impact of Hurricane Ian on the State’s Businesses

9/29/2022

Tallahassee, FL – Today, the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) and the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) activated the Business Damage Assessment Survey in response to Hurricane Ian. Survey responses will allow the state to expedite Hurricane Ian recovery efforts by gathering data and assessing the needs of affected businesses.

“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, DEO is committed to supporting preparation, response, and recovery efforts of Florida businesses, communities, and citizens impacted by Hurricane Ian. The business damage assessment survey assists DEO and its federal, state, and local partners in those efforts,” said DEO Secretary Dane Eagle. “I encourage businesses impacted by Hurricane Ian to complete the Business Damage Assessment Survey at FloridaDisaster.biz.”

On September 24, 2022, Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 22-219 declaring a state of emergency in all 67 counties in the State of Florida. All affected businesses should complete the survey.

Results from the Business Damage Assessment Survey will be shared with various federal, state, and local agencies to implement appropriate relief. Businesses can complete the survey online or visit FloridaDisaster.biz and select “Hurricane Ian” from the dropdown menu. If you need additional assistance with your business, please call 850-815-4925 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or email ESF-18@em.myflorida.com.

About DEO
The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity combines the state’s economic, workforce, and community development efforts, expediting economic development projects to fuel job creation in competitive communities and promote economic resiliency. For more information, including valuable resources for employers and job seekers, please visit www.FloridaJobs.org.

Nassau County Shelters Opening and Transportation Schedule

9/28/2022

Nassau County has two shelters opening at 12:00 p.m. today. They are as follows:

Special Needs Shelter:
Hilliard Middle Senior High
1 Flashes Drive
Hilliard, FL 32046

General Population and Pet Friendly:
Callahan Middle School
450121 Old Dixie Highway
Callahan, FL 32033

If you are planning to go to the Special Needs Shelter, please ensure that you have completed the special needs registration through the Department of Health. They can be reached at 888-353-8387. You can also register online at https://snr.flhealthresponse.com/. If you have already registered, you will be contacted by the Department of Health.

Everyone visiting a shelter should be prepared to bring:

Personal identification including Photo ID, insurance card, emergency contacts and your primary care provider’s contact information
Medical information including medications taken, dosage and doctor name/contact info
Any prescription and/or over the counter medication that you may need
Vital equipment for those who are electrically or oxygen dependent
Food/snacks, particularly those with special dietary needs
Bedding (sheets, blankets, pillows)
Sanitary supplies (soap, shampoo, sanitizer, disinfecting wipes)
Clothing

Bus routes/transportation has been established. Please see graphic below for details. If you need special accommodates to ride a bus, please call Emergency Management at (904) 548-0910.

Please continue to remain vigilant and follow public safety announcements. They can be heard on NOAA Weather Radio; Local radio stations 89.9 FM, 104.5 FM and 690 AM; and local news stations Channels 4, 12, 30 and 47.

Information related to the storm can also be found at www.OneNassau.com. Follow Emergency Management on social media at Nassau EM or at www.twitter.com/NassauEM.
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If you have any questions, please contact Nassau County Emergency Management at (904) 548-0900.

Just in Time Preparedness for Hurricane Ian from FEMA

9/28/2022

Release Date
Tue, 09/27/2022 - 20:44

Hurricane Ian is bearing down on Florida, bringing life-threating storm surge, powerful winds and the possibility of flash floods. Most of Florida, as well as southern states, will be affected by the hurricane.

It is important to listen to local officials if they recommend that you evacuate. If you are unable to evacuate or if you are told to shelter-in-place, here are some last-minute ways you can prepare.

Stay informed
Information changes. It’s important to stay updated, so you know what to expect and when to expect it. One way to do this is to have several ways to receive alerts.

Download the FEMA app and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service.
Sign up for community alerts in your area.
Have you ever received a loud emergency alert on your phone or the radio? These automatic alerts can warn you of extreme weather, so make sure to pay attention to them.
A battery-operated or hand-crank radio can help you stay informed even if the power goes out.

Gather Supplies
Utilities, roads and stores may be damaged after a storm hits, making it difficult to find food and water. While FEMA and our partners have prepositioned food and water supplies to help assist those after the hurricane, it’s important to have supplies ready in case you can’t leave your home. Some basic supplies include:

Several days’ supply of food and water for your family, pets and service animals. If your kit includes canned food, be sure to also have a manual can opener. Fill empty containers—even bathtubs—with potable water.
Flashlight and backup batteries.
First aid kit.
Whistle (to signal for help).
Local maps.
Alternate methods for charging a cell phone or radio.

Know the risks you face – and how to stay safe
Hurricanes can cause major damage and present many different risks. Here are some risks you should understand to help prepare you and your family for Hurricane Ian.

Storm Surge. This is fast and dangerous flooding caused by hurricane winds. Storm surge is expected along both the East and West Florida coastlines. Some areas on the west coastline may see storm surge up to 12 feet. If you are trapped in a building, never climb into a closed attic where you may become trapped by rising water.
Floods. Remember never to walk, swim or drive through flood waters. It is difficult to tell how deep water is or what dangerous items might be hidden in the water. Just one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away, while just 6-inches can knock you down. If your car is trapped in rapidly moving water, stay inside your car. If water begins to rise inside of the car, move to the roof.
Power Outages. Hurricanes often cause power outages. Take inventory of the items that rely on electricity, so you know what you might be without or need back up power for, such as medical equipment or medication that depends on refrigeration. If you have a generator, remember to ONLY use it outdoors and away from windows.

Look out for others
Remember that not everyone is able to make these preparations. Check on your neighbors to see if they need help. Be sure to consider the needs of everyone in your household, such as those who may require medication or communication assistance.

Another member of your household that may need your help is your pet. Be sure to have a plan for your pet. If you are evacuating, be sure to know which shelters take in pets.

For more ways you can prepare now for a hurricane, visit ready.gov/hurricanes.

Nassau County Administrative Offices Closed

9/28/2022

Nassau County Administrative Offices will be closed from Wednesday, September 28 - Friday, September 30th as we prepare for Hurricane Ian.

County staff and volunteers will be working around the clock in the field and/or at the Emergency Operations Center. The Emergency Operations Center will be your primary point of contact effective immediately today. They can be reached at (904) 548-0900.

Please continue to follow updates at our Joint Information Website at www.OneNassau.com. Updates will also be made on NOAA Weather Radio; Local radio stations 89.9 FM, 145.5 FM and 690 AM; and local news stations Channels 4, 12, 30 and 47.

Hurricane Ian Updates from the City of Fernandina Beach

9/28/2022

Due to the approach of Hurricane Ian, Waste Management will suspend all services on Thursday, September 29, and Friday, September 30. This impacts both residential and commercial garbage. Updates are available at wmfloridastorm.com. Please secure all containers prior to the expected heavy winds.

Non-essential City operations will be suspended, effective 6:00pm, today, September 28, 2022.
City pools are closed currently and will remain closed until further notice.

All golfers need to be off the Fernandina Beach Municipal Golf Course by 2:00pm today. The kitchen and Course will be closed all day tomorrow, Thursday, September 29.

Community updates are periodically posted on the City of Fernandina Beach Facebook page.

Evacuation Order Issued for Nassau County Evacuation Zones A and D

9/28/2022

As of 8:00 a.m. this morning, Nassau County has issued an Evacuation Order for Evacuation Zones A and D. An Evacuation Zone Map can be located at www.onenassau.com/evacuations. There is also an interactive version at www.nassauflpa.com, under the GIS Mapping feature.

Nassau County is unable to tell residents when they will be able to return as that will depend on damages from the storm and associated assessments deeming it’s safe to return. Upon returning to Nassau County, please have identification available. This will ensure that you don’t have any issues returning to your home. If your identification card does not include your home address, please ensure you have some sort of documentation so they can confirm your address (deed, utility bill, property tax bill, etc.).

Sheltering information will be released within the next few hours. Nassau County is working closely with the School Board to get the sites ready for resident’s arrival.

Please continue to remain vigilant and follow public safety announcements. They can be heard on NOAA Weather Radio; Local radio stations 89.9 FM, 145.5 FM and 690 AM; and local news stations Channels 4, 12, 30 and 47.

Information related to the storm can also be found at www.OneNassau.com. Follow Emergency Management on social media at Nassau EM or at www.twitter.com/NassauEM.
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If you have any questions, please contact Nassau County Emergency Management at (904) 548-0900.