Florida Keys Evacuation Order to Expire

Because of Hurricane Ike, both a Tropical Storm Warning and a Hurricane Watch is continuing for the Florida Keys from Ocean Reef, southward to the Dry Tortugas. While mandatory evacuations of both visitors and residents of the Florida Keys were ordered and have been ongoing since the weekend, those evacuation orders are set to expire at noon today. Officials say that it is unlikely those orders will be extended because the core of Hurricane Ike is remaining well south and west of the Florida Keys. While the Keys may experience tropical storm force winds, heavy rain and high surf, it is unlikely that sustained hurricane force winds will reach the islands.

Hurricane Ike is still a dangerous storm, so officials are encouraging residents that evacuated to wait and not return until the threat of tropical storm force winds have passed. There are no emergency services available and hospitals will remain closed until the threat of Hurricane Ike passes. Residents will be allowed back into the Keys first, but visitors are expected to be able to return to the islands by the weekend, if not sooner. Visitors may check www.fla-keys.com for exact dates.

Details and an interactive map of Hurricane Ike's location and projected path can be found at www.stormpulse.com. Do you want to know how close Hurricane Ike is to your city? Simply roll your mouse over a city and the map displays the distance.