(Tallahassee, FL) — Florida Governor Rick Scott says the heart of Hurricane Irma “is quickly approaching us.” Speaking to reporters this afternoon in Tallahassee, Scott said Irma remains a powerful Category 3 storm, but it will get stronger as it gets closer to the state. He said the Florida Keys will get a direct impact from Irma and added the storm surges “could kill you.” He warned that tornados are possible for south Florida tonight, then once again told Floridians that “You need to leave now..this is your last chance to make a good decision.” Scott said that his office has been in constant contact with the White House and FEMA is already on the ground.
Over 17-hundred Florida troopers are on the roads assisting with the evacuations and over 380 shelters are open. Forecasters say Irma will pick up strength as it moves away from Cuba and towards the Florida Keys. The storm is expected to reach the Keys tomorrow.