Additional Coverage:
- Officials’ grim request for those riding out Helene in Florida: Mark your bodies so we can ID you (nbcnews.com)
Taylor County Residents Urged to Mark Themselves for Identification
As Hurricane Helene approaches, Taylor County Sheriff Wayne Padgett has issued a dire warning to residents who have opted to stay home and ride out the storm. With the county expected to take a direct hit, Padgett advises those who have ignored evacuation orders to write their personal information, including their Social Security number, on their arms with a black marker. This measure is intended to help officials identify bodies in the event of the worst-case scenario.
Mandatory Evacuations Ignored by Many
Despite mandatory evacuation orders for Taylor County, approximately half of the population has chosen to remain in their homes. Padgett cautions that it is too late for these individuals to flee and urges them to stay put and hunker down. However, he warns that low-lying areas face a serious threat from the storm’s potential 18- to 20-foot storm surge.
Residents Face Grave Danger
Padgett expresses deep concern for the safety of those who have chosen not to evacuate, particularly those near the coast. He advises that while people can seek shelter from wind, they cannot hide from rising water. The sheriff notes that Helene is one of the largest storms projected to impact the Gulf Coast, with winds reaching up to 125 mph and tornado warnings in effect.
County Prepares for Aftermath
Despite the lack of an official shelter in Taylor County due to its direct path in the storm’s path, Padgett assures residents that state agencies and other organizations are on hand to assist with recovery efforts. Uber has offered to transport residents to shelters outside the county. Power crews and food trucks are also available to support those in need.
Community Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Sheriff Padgett acknowledges that Taylor County has faced three major storms within the past year, but he remains optimistic that the community will endure and recover. He encourages residents to take precautions, stay informed, and seek assistance if needed.