Orange County update on Tropical Storm Ian for Thursday, September 29 at 11:30 AM

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Here is Orange County’s update on Tropical Storm Ian for Thursday, September 29, at 11:30 a.m.

Weather update
Tropical Storm Ian continues to move north as it makes its way out of Central Florida. Orange County can continue to expect sustained winds of 30-40 mph and gusts up to 50 mph throughout the day.

The tropical storm winds are expected to leave the county by 1 a.m. Friday.

Orange County experienced heavy rains which produced widespread flooding in multiple areas. Rainfall totals have been from 8 – 12 inches in the County and up to 16 inches in some areas. We are cautiously optimistic the rain will start to subside and the flooding will recede.

The rain situation remains serious. Flash Flood Warnings were issued earlier this morning. Orange County received multiple calls for flooding rescue. Orange County Fire Rescue responded to these calls and evacuated dozens of people. One of hardest hit areas was in Hope Circle in the Orla Vista area.

Shelters
Orange County has approximately 1,300 residents in the shelters. This number is fluctuating while some evacuees head home and others in serious flood areas are arriving at the shelters.

Two shelters are now closed – Timber Creek High School and Southwest Middle School.

Power outages
The local power companies continue to assess the power outage situations. It is estimated there are more 200,000 households in the County without power.

The companies are doing everything possible to restore power as quickly as possible. OUC states their line and water technicians and crews must pause their work when wind speeds reach 35 mph, and all crews are mindful of flooding and other unsafe conditions.

The power companies remind everyone to never touch a downed power line or wire. Instead, they should report the fallen line to the utility company.

Orange County Utilities
For wastewater emergencies such as sewage backing up into your home or the streets, please call Orange County Utilities Emergency Dispatch at 407-836-2777.

Residents in apartment complexes should report sewer backups to their property management company.

For questions or information on Tropical Storm Ian, please go to OCFL.net/storm.

For general assistance with needs in Orange County please call 311 or 407-836-3111.