Collier County is bracing for any impact from Hurricane Milton. The forecast is calling for landfall somewhere along Florida's west coast, although it is too early to tell if that will mean SW FL or elsewhere.
This is a developing story and our reporters and photographers are spread out in Collier County and ready to provide coverage, contributing the latest updates on flooding, cancellations and closures, and what you need to know.
EVACUATION ZONES: Find out where your evacuation zone is HERE.
WATCHING THE TROPICS: Here's the latest information on Hurricane Milton's track
Helpful links
Go HERE to find Collier County sandbag locations
Go HERE for Collier County evacuation zones
GoHEREfor Lee County weather watches, warnings and advisories.
GoHEREfor latest forecast from AccuWeather.
POWER OUTAGES:LCEC power map isHERE.
POWER OUTAGES:FPL's tracker isHERE.
POWER OUTAGES:HEREfor United States power outage tracker
AIRPORT:RSW's flight trackerfor delays, cancellations
Publix changes hours for Hurricane Milton, what to know
A peek at Publix store maps indicates most in Lee and Collier counties will close by 3 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8.
Click here to find out when your Publix is open.
RSW flights suspended Wednesday and Thursday
On its website, Southwest Florida International Airport said airlines are planning to operate on Tuesday. At this time, no commercial flights will be operating on Wednesday and Thursday.
Everglades City declares a state of emergency as Hurricane Milton nears
According to reporter J. Kyle Foster: Everglades City declared a state of emergency. Everglades City is in the Collier County mandatory evacuation zones that go into effect at 6 a.m. Tuesday.
What's the latest on services, such as trash pickup and permitting?
Reporter Laura Layden was reporting on a variety of services:
Trash pickup: In unincorporated Collier County, there will not be any collection of garbage, recycling, bulky, or yard waste on Wednesday, Oct. 9.Collection services will resume on the next regularly scheduled day. The Collier County Landfill, the Immokalee Transfer Station, and the Recycling Drop-Off Centers will also be closed Wednesday. Residents are encouraged to place garbage cans and recycling bins where they will not be blown away.
Humane Society: In a press release, Humane Society Naples said it "remains steadfast and ready to jump into action." It shared: "We are actively monitoring the storm and making preparations to ensure all our animals are safe and comfortable. We will be transferring all animals from our Main Shelter and von Arx Adoption Center to our Oaks facility, as well as relying on volunteer foster homes. We will have around-the-clock staff on-site to care for the animals."
Construction: Due to Hurricane Milton, Collier County's Growth Management Community Development Department will be suspending new permit applications from Tuesday through Friday, at 8 a.m. Permit inspection scheduling will be suspended until then, as well.
Storm surge warning has been issued for Collier County including Marco
Team member J. Kyle Foster is reporting that a Storm Surge Warning is in effect for Collier County including Marco Island. This warning is issued up to 36 hours before hazardous flooding conditions begin, and to alert residents to urgently complete efforts to protect your homes and families. Hurricane Milton is a Category 5 hurricane.
Collier County Bureau of Emergency Services Director Dan Summers said at the Board of County Commissioners meeting this morning that storm surge could vary between 4 to 7 feet overland depending on the near-landfall speed, wind intensity and tide times and that was for Collier County in general.
What is the status of county-operated airports and plans to close?
Collier County Airport Operations Executive Manager Bryant Garrett offered this update on county airports to reporter Laura Layden:
Everglades Airpark (X01) – planning to close at 4 p.m. on Tuesday
Marco Island Executive Airport (MKY) - planning to close at 7 p.m. on Tuesday
Immokalee Regional Airport (IMM) expects to stay open with a minimal crew (weather permitting and subject to change)
On Thursday, the county will assess the airports that close to see when they can reopen.
Here is the schedule on shelters Collier County is opening on Tuesday
Reporter Laura Layden got the latest lists:
Collier County announced a Special Needs-Only Shelter will open on Tuesday at 2 p.m. at Palmetto Ridge High School for electrically dependent or bedridden pre-registered clients who require nursing care. A family member or caregiver is asked to accompany the special needs person to the shelter. The shelter is located at 1655 Victory Lane and it's pet friendly.
And she also has the general population shelters, which are scheduled to open at 4 p.m. Tuesday Oc.t 8. Pets will only be allowed at special needs or middle schools.
- Gulf Coast High School: 7878 Shark Way
- Immokalee High School: 701 Immokalee Drive
- Golden Gate High School: 2925 Titan Way
- Corkscrew Middle School (Pet-Friendly):1165 Oil Well Road
- Cypress Palm Middle School (Pet-Friendly): 4255 18th Avenue N.E.
- Golden Gate Middle School (Pet-Friendly): 2701 48th Terrace S.W.
- Immokalee Middle School (Pet-Friendly): 401 9th Street
- Oakridge Middle School(Pet-Friendly): 14975 Collier Boulevard
Residents take the steps to protect homes and businesses with sandbags
In addition to video, photographer captured the efforts of Collier County residents trying to get sandbags to protect their homes and businesses.
Video: As Hurricane Milton approaches, residents gather many sandbags
With a video, our Jonah Hinebaugh captured the many people gathered at Eagle Lakes Community Park to fill sandbags Monday afternoon in Naples as Hurricane Milton approaches the state.
Mandatory evacuation ordered for residents of Marco Island, Goodland
According to reporter, J. Kyle Foster, this was just released: The city of Marco Island is issuing a Mandatory Evacuation for residents of Marco Island and Goodland due to the strength of Hurricane Milton and anticipated storm surge.
Here's some the information it shared:
The City of Marco Island is issuing a Mandatory Evacuation for residents of Marco Island and Goodland due to the strength of Hurricane Milton and anticipated storm surge.While Collier County has not yet announced shelter openings, this information will be released Tuesday morning. Residents in low-lying areas are urged to prepare their homes and move to higher ground by Tuesday afternoon. The rainfall over the next few days combined with tides and storm surge from Hurricane Milton presents a serious flood risk to our area.Law enforcement will not force you from your home, but the purpose of this mandatory evacuation order is to emphasize the severity of this storm and potential risk to life and safety.Take action now to ensure your safety.
Marco Island to close city facilities Tuesday through Thursday
Marco Island will close city facilities on Tuesday, Oct. 8, through Thursday, Oct. 10 because of the anticipated impacts from Hurricane Milton, Assistant City Manager Casey Lucius shared with reporter J. Kyle Foster.
"While city buildings and parks are closed, Marco Island will operate a call center and first responders are on duty and ready to clear debris, clear storm drains, and respond to emergencies," Lucius said in a statement, adding that in cases of emergency, call 9-1-1. General questions or concerns can be directed to 239-389-5000. Also, visit the City of Marco Island website and see the Hurricane Milton page for updates, or follow updates on Marco Island City Hall Facebook and NextDoor.
If you are experiencing a water or sewer emergency after hours, call 239-394-3168. If you want to report an issue with storm drains, traffic signals, or traffic signs, call Public Works at 239-825-0571. The non-emergency line for police is 239-389-5050. The City will resume normal operations on Friday, Oct. 11.
Special meeting to be held today in Everglades City related to the storm
Everglades City is holding an extraordinary meeting to discuss issuing a State of Emergency for the City of Everglades at 4 p.m. today, according to reporter J. Kyle Foster.
Naples city offices closing Tuesday until Thursday; vehicle curfew coming
Reporter Laura Layden had an update from city of Naples: A vehicle curfew will be implemented Tuesday evening. The city will also close all beach access points, the Pier, Pier parking lot and city parks at 6 p.m. tonight.
All city offices and facilities will be closed Tuesday through Thursday.
Affecting seniors, another closing thanks to the threat of Hurricane Milton
The Naples Baker Senior Center will be closed Wednesday and Thursday, according to according to reporter Liz Freeman.
What's going on in the Fifth Avenue South district of downtown Naples?
Photographer Jonah Hinebaugh has been capturing some of the efforts in the downtown Naples area and beyond today.
When do sheriff's deputies have to stop responding during a storm?
When sustained winds reach a certain speed, Collier and Lee sheriff's deputies stop responding for safety sake. Reporter Tomas Rodriguez spoke to both departments and when they have to stop responding and what happens next. Read about it here.
Marco Island council reschedules today's meeting until next week
Citing the public's safety with Hurricane Milton, the Marco Island City Council rescheduled today's Oct. 7 meeting to Wednesday, Oct. 16, at 5:30 p.m., according to reporter J. Kyle Foster.
NCH operating as usual but that likely changes Wednesday with closings
NCHwill be doing early discharge of some patients and will be closing some outpatient centers, but emergency rooms will be open as Hurricane Milton passes Collier County, according to reporter Liz Freeman.
All NCH facilities are open as business as usual Monday and Tuesday, but some patients who can be safely discharged ahead of the storm are being discharged. On Wednesday, NCH Medical Group practices and Immediate Care Centers, NCH Wellness and Rehab Centers, and Marco Urgent Care Center will be closed.
Also, all elective surgeries are cancelled for Wednesday and Thursday. Earlier, NCH had been taking a wait-and-see approach. on that aspect. Both NCH Baker Hospital and NCH North Naples hospitals and freestanding Emergency Departments will remain open during the storm but may close should Milton take a more direct path toward Collier County.
NCH parking garages are reserved for on-duty staff only and all other vehicles will be turned away by security stationed at the entrances.
“We are closely monitoring the situation and making necessary adjustments to ensure that all patients receive the care they need, whether they are discharged or remain in our care during the storm,” said Jennifer Smith, administrative director of Emergency Management. “We urge all patients to prioritize safety during the storm should it alter course and make landfall closer to Collier County."
Bonita Springs residents urged to heed mandatory evacuation orders
Bonita Springs city manager Arleen Hunter urged residents to heed mandatory evacuation orders in zones A and B at a news conference Monday afternoon, which business journalist Laura Layden covered.
"We urge residents to finalize your preparedness plans. Now, is the time," she said.
Hunter also urged that all building materials be secured, and that residents continue monitoring updates on Milton. Collection of debris from Hurricane Helene will continue Monday and Tuesday (as weather permits), but residents are encouraged not to put more of it at the curb, ahead of Milton.
FGCU students told to evacuate dorms by Tuesday
From reporter Laura Layden:
FGCU students received an email Sunday afternoon saying all residence halls must be evacuated by 2 p.m. Tuesday. Students will not be allowed to return to their rooms "until further notice." The university urged students to return home, go to an off-campus location, if possible, or to "evacuate to Alico Arena."
See expected impacts in Florida:Hurricane Milton becomes Category 5 storm with 160-mph winds
Collier County declares Local State of Emergency with 'no prohibitions'
Collier County has declared a Local State of Emergency, with "no prohibitions or conditions at this time."
A mandatory evacuation will be in effect for zones A and B, starting at 6 a.m. Tuesday. If you evacuate, the county is encouraging you not to be in a "hurry to return," allowing time for the government and utilities to evaluate their systems and neighborhoods for safety.
Generally, Zone A is the coastal area south and west of U.S. 41. Zone B is a vulnerable area to winds and storm surge flooding. It stretches from Immokalee Road to Golden Gate Parkway.
Shelters will be opened, but an announcement on opening times and locations won't be made until Tuesday. The county stressed shelters should be considered as a "last resort," however.
Naples Mayor Teresa Heitmann today signed a declaration of the mandatory evacuation for zones A and B.
Naples City Manager Jay Boodheshwar said access to the Naples Pier and to all beach fronts, including parking, will be closed at 6 p.m. Monday.
The city expects a curfew for car traffic. The time has not been announced. City officials expect storm surge to be the main hazard and it can be life threatening. The city is expecting storm surge of 4 to 7 feet.
Officials urged residents and visitors to heed the evacuations and staying off the roads.
“There will come a point where we will not be able to get to you,” Naples Fire Chief Phillip Pennington said Monday.
NCH discharging patients ahead of Hurricane Milton
NCH is in the process of safely discharging patients ahead of the approaching storm where appropriate, health journalist Liz Freeman reports.
"Our priority is the health and safety of our patients, staff, and community. e are closely monitoring the situation and making necessary adjustments to ensure that all patients receive the care they need, whether they are discharged or remain in our care during the storm," NCH said in a news release.
All NCH facilities will be open for business as usual Mondayand Tuesday
Wednesday, all NCH Medical Group practices and Immediate Care Centers, NCH Wellness and Rehab Centers, and Marco Urgent Care Center will be closed.
Both NCH hospitals and free standing Emergency Departments will remain open during the storm, but may close should Milton take a more direct path towards Collier County.
"We urge all patients to prioritize safety during the storm should it alter course and make landfall closer to Collier County," NCH said.
Where can you get sandbags Monday in Collier?
As of Monday morning, Hurricane Milton was forecast to make landfall somewhere between the Lee-Collier area to the south, and the Big Bend to the north, which was recently hit hard by Hurricane Helene.
Click here for sandbag locations in Collier County.
Emergency shelters starting to open in Collier County
With Hurricane Milton quickly approaching Southwest Florida, St. Matthew’s House is opening its 2 Emergency Shelters today through Thursday so people can get out of the life-threatening storm.
St. Matthew’s House’s two shelters will be open for anyone who needs to get out of the wind and rain while also providing a place to be safe from the hurricane, health journalist Liz Freeman reports.
The shelters are the Campbell Lodge at 2001 Airport Road South in Naples and the Immokalee Friendship Lodge at 602 W. Main Street.
There’s plenty of space for anyone in need of shelter and St. Matthew’s House will provide beds, pillows, blankets, snacks and coffee in a safe and secure environment.
Guests will be required to take a breathalyzer test.
"We’re also asking for donations of blankets, pillows, coats, ponchos and socks for guests staying at our shelters," St. Matthew’s House said in a news release.
St. Matthew’s House’s food pantry in Naples will be closed Tuesday through Thursday this week and food distributions Wednesday in Immokalee and Friday in LaBelle have also been cancelled.
Collier Community Foundation reactivates disaster relief fund
The Collier Community Foundation has reactivated the Collier Comes Together HurricaneDisaster Relief Fundto assist Hurricane Milton victims. Activating the fund allows CCF to act quickly to ensure immediate aid is provided where needed most, the Foundation said in a news release Monday
"The fund's purpose is to assist those affected and the nonprofits that support the victims in the aftermath of a crisis," the news release said. "The fund also ensures donors' support reaches its intended cause. Following a disaster or emergency, fraudulent sites pop up, misleading donors about where their funds will go. Any funds not used for Hurricane Milton relief will be retained for future disasters to ensure the Collier Community Foundation is prepared for future events that affect our community."
To donate online to the Collier Comes Together HurricaneDisaster Relief Fund, visit colliercf.org, or click here. Mail checks to the Collier Community Foundation at 1110 Pine Ridge Road, Suite 200, Naples, FL 34108. Please note Hurricane Milton Fund in the memo line.
Naples church to close Tuesday through Thursday
North Naples Church will be closed Tuesday through Thursday because of Hurricane Milton.
The church, 6000 Goodlette-Frank Road, plans to reopen Friday, dependent upon weather conditions, the church announced Monday.
Collier County Domestic Animal Services offering $1 microchips
Collier County Domestic Animal Services is offering $1 microchips.
This special will run until Friday, Oct. 11, in an effort to keep pets safer.
Collier County announces 3 sandbag locations
In his newsletter, Collier County Commissioner Burt Saunders said 50 tons of sand will be at the county's three sandbag operations this morning, starting at 10 a.m.
The three sandbag locations are: Sun-N-Fun at North Collier Regional Park, 15000 Livingston Road; Donna Fiala Eagle Lakes Community Park, 11565 Tamiami Trail E.; and Big Corkscrew Island Regional Park, 810 39th Ave. NE.
Naples Airport Authority will lock down its hangars at noon today
Naples Airport Authority will be locking down its hangars at noon today, Director of Communications Robin King said in an email.
"The NAA is closely monitoring Hurricane Milton and we’re encouraging our staff, tenants, and customers to make plans now to stay safe. For example, some tenants are choosing to relocate their aircraft."
"If intensified storm conditions cause the air traffic control tower ― which is under FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) management ― to close, the airport will follow their lead," King said.
King said updates are being posted on the front page of the airport website: www.flynaples.com
Riding out Milton or evacuating? Vote in our poll
Hurricane Milton has strengthened into a Category 3 major hurricane this morning.
So what are your plans for Hurricane Milton?
Are flights canceled today? Latest update from Southwest Florida International Airport
Southwest Florida International Airport says it's operating today but suggested that passengers check with their airlines for the most up-to-date information, business journalist Laura Layden found.
Additionally, it stated: "We do not know yet what impacts weather will have on flights later this week."
Check flights and more at flyrsw.com.
Jaw-dropping rapid intensification:Hurricane Milton now Category 4 storm with 150-mph winds
Collier County Public Utilities prepares for Hurricane Milton
Collier County Public Utilities has advised it's prepared to deliver essential, life-sustaining services during and after the storm, said a news release from Layden.
The water and wastewater plants are equipped with backup generators to ensure that operations will continue without interruption. Additionally, mobile generators and pumper trucks have been deployed to facilities throughout the service area. All utility construction sites are being prepared for storm surge. Contractors are on standby to assist residents in recovery efforts.
The utility is asking its 200,000 customers in unincorporated Collier County, the City of Marco Island andthe City of Everglades to follow these crucial utility tips to navigate the storm safely.
Before the storm:
- During heavy rains, do not divert stormwater into the sewer system by opening cleanouts and manhole covers. This is illegal and may cause backups into homes.
- Do not put out Hurricane Helene debris and do not set out bulk for collection. If there is debris already at the curb, please contact our Customer Service team at (239) 252-2380 to arrange removal.
- Take advantage of Collier County’s twice-weekly garbage and recycling collection services and wait until the next collection day to reduce the potential for wind-blown debris and conveyance to the stormwater system.
During and after the storm:
- After heavy rainfall, do not remove cleanout caps or sewer manhole covers. It’s important to maintain stormwater from entering the sewer system to prevent backups into homes.
- If your area is inundated with storm surge, please report it to 311. Refrain from using appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines. This will help speed up recovery after the storm.
Residents with questions may call 311 within Collier County or (239) 252-8444. Information can also be found at www.colliercountyfl.gov and social media channels including www.facebook.com/CollierGov and www.twitter.com/CollierGov.
Hurricane Watch in effect for Gulf Coast, including Collier County
A Hurricane Watch is in effect for the Gulf Coast of Florida including Collier County, Naples Daily News journalist J. Kyle Foster reports. A Storm Surge Watch ― which has also been issued for our area ― means there is a possibility of life-threatening inundation from rising water moving inland from the coast during the next 48 hours.
Hurricane Milton is forecast to intensify rapidly and become a major Hurricane later today. There is a Voluntary Evacuation Order for Marco Island and Goodland. Residents are urged to seek shelter in higher elevated areas. Storm surge for our area is expected between 4 to 7 feet.
Satellite capabilities on iPhones 14 and higher
Anyone with an iPhone 14 or higher can connect to a satellite if WiFi service is lost.
The service for Apple customers allows them to text emergency services, request roadside assistance, message friends and family and share a location.
Go to support.apple.com to learn more.
Collier County public, private schools closed for Hurricane Milton
Collier County Public Schools announced Sunday that there will be no will classes Monday through Thursday "due to the many variables in timing and intensity of Hurricane Milton."
Check emails or https://www.collierschools.com/weather for the full update.
Also, the Village School of Naples said Sunday it had canceled classes through Thursday "to give faculty and families time to prepare or evacuate if they choose to do so," said Head of School Dennis D. Chapman.
"Many in our community have already evacuated their homes," he said, adding these would be considered distance learning days.
Sunday's Hurricane Milton headlines
- Fort Myers Beach officials order mandatory evacuations for residents by 3 p.m. today
- SW FL residents hit grocery stories and gas stations for supplies
- Sandbagging offered at communities throughout SW FL
- Photos: See images of people preparing around the Fort Myers area
- Video: Marco Island's Snook Inn makes preparations ahead of hurricane
- Sunday's live news blog for Collier County
Preparing for Hurricane Milton: Everything to know
From outside and inside your house, pets and additional resources, go HERE.
Video: Run on supplies
This story was updated to add a video.
