Orlando Standard

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer has declared a State of Emergency as Hurricane Milton approaches. In a press conference, Mayor Dyer was joined by city staff and emergency partners to discuss preparations.

The city's Emergency Operations Center will escalate to Level 2 Activation on Tuesday, October 8, at 10 a.m., moving to Level 1 Full Activation on Wednesday, October 9, at noon.

Sandbags are available at Camping World Stadium starting today from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and tomorrow from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Residents can collect ten bags per household with an ID required for verification.

Solid waste services will operate normally today and tomorrow but will be suspended starting Wednesday at noon, depending on landfill operations and weather conditions. Residents are advised not to place loose yard debris at the curb to prevent flooding.

City crews are preparing for potential impacts by checking drainage systems and lowering lake levels. Parking fees in designated garages will be waived from Wednesday morning until Friday noon, subject to weather conditions.

Non-essential city offices and services will close on Wednesday and Thursday, including neighborhood centers and pools. Sports activities have also been canceled during this period.

Efforts are underway to assist the homeless population through increased shelter capacity provided by the Homeless Services Network. Outreach teams continue directing individuals to shelters as long as it remains safe.

Residents can stay updated via social media or visit orlando.gov/storm for more information on storm preparation supplies and considerations.