Storm Preparedness in South Florida: Major Closures and Precautions as Hurricane Milton Approaches
As Hurricane Milton approaches the state of Florida, various institutions throughout Miami-Dade, Broward, and Monroe counties are taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of their students and staff. The impacts of this impending storm are prompting significant closures in educational institutions, public services, and transportation systems across the region.
Educational Institution Closures
In anticipation of severe weather, several major universities and colleges in South Florida are shuttering their doors. Florida International University (FIU) and Florida Atlantic University (FAU) will close their campuses starting at 5 p.m. on Tuesday and will not resume operations until Thursday. Both institutions have canceled classes, including online courses, with FIU allowing on-campus residents to stay in their buildings while providing vehicle protection in parking garages.
The University of Miami is shifting to remote learning from 5 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. All in-person classes and events have been canceled, while UHealth clinical operations maintain their normal schedules, with a few exceptions.
K-12 School Districts
Miami-Dade County Public Schools has announced that all campuses will close at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, following the cancellation of after-school activities. Classes will not resume on Wednesday, with administrative offices also closed. Broward County Schools will close its doors for the entirety of Wednesday and Thursday, with district offices already ceasing operations on Tuesday.
In Monroe County, campus closures will take effect on Wednesday, and the Archdiocese of Miami has similarly announced that all its Catholic schools in affected counties will close from Wednesday.
Palm Beach County schools are also affected, with campuses closing from Tuesday through Thursday. The operational adjustments mirror the extensive closures seen during previous storms, such as Hurricane Helene.
Universities and Community Colleges
In addition to the large state schools, several community colleges such as Miami Dade College and Broward College will suspend classes starting at 5 p.m. Tuesday and through Thursday. New College of Florida is evacuating its Sarasota campus, closing from Monday until Friday, providing shelter for students without alternative accommodation.
Transportation Services Impacted
The approach of Hurricane Milton is also affecting transportation across South Florida. Brightline, the regional train service, will cease operations on Wednesday and Thursday between West Palm Beach and Orlando, although it will maintain limited service across South Florida stations. Other public transit services, such as Tri-Rail and Metrorail, will continue operations as usual for now, providing essential mobility for residents.
Government Office Closures
Miami-Dade County’s non-essential government offices, including courts, will close starting Wednesday until further notice. Broward County courts will also be closed on Wednesday and Thursday, with a return to normal operations expected on Friday.
Monroe County is following suit, closing non-essential government offices during the storm. The Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade will also halt operations, redirecting staff towards emergency responses.
Community Events and Attractions
The Florida Panthers have canceled their scheduled Champions Ring Ceremony due to safety concerns, although they plan to proceed with their opening night game against the Boston Bruins. Zoo Miami, however, hopes to remain open as long as weather permits, offering a discounted admission rate as facilities adjust for the storm.
Many civic events have also been postponed, including a gathering with former President Donald Trump in Miami, demonstrating the widespread impact of Hurricane Milton on civic life and public engagements.
Road and Bridge Lockdowns
In an effort to ensure safety, the Florida Department of Transportation is locking down bridges across Miami-Dade and Broward counties to marine navigation. Key drawbridges and roads are being restricted to protect critical infrastructure ahead of severe weather impacts.
In summary, South Florida is bracing for Hurricane Milton with widespread precautionary measures in effect across educational institutions, public transportation, government services, and community events. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and prioritize their safety by following updates from local authorities and news outlets as the storm approaches.