Photos – Businesses brace for Hurricane Milton

Reports of possible tornado damage at Vero Beach Police Department

VERO BEACH — Images and videos spread on social media of downed trees, flooded streets and more damage Wednesday after weather experts issued several tornado warnings ahead of Hurricane Milton. At least two possible tornadoes made landfall near the Vero Beach Police Department, flinging tree limbs in the air and scattering debris, said Kelsea Callahan, a spokesperson for the police department. Meteorologists could not immediately confirm if tornadoes struck the police department. It will take weather experts a few days to assess the damage and confirm if tornadoes hit the agency. Meteorologists said a tornado that formed in St. Lucie County moved into southern Indian River County on Wednesday and caused damage. Weather experts with the National Weather Service said they ...

Bridges closed in both directions as county readies for Hurricane Milton

INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — Authorities closed the Merrill P. Barber Bridge and Alma Lee Loy Bridge in both directions Wednesday evening in anticipation of Hurricane Milton. Law enforcement officials shut down east and westbound lanes on the bridges about 6:45 p.m., said Kelsea Callahan, a spokesperson for the Vero Beach Police Department. "Due to safety concerns related to flooding and downed power lines, the Barber and 17th Street bridges are temporarily closed," sheriff's officials said in a statement. "First responders are assessing damage and assisting with any necessary evacuations. Please avoid the area and allow emergency crews to work." Police said only first responders will cross the bridges. Indian River County Sheriff Eric Flowers earlier said the bridges would close ...

‘Please be prepared’: IRC Emergency Services ready for Hurricane Milton

This story will be continuously updated for Hurricane Milton coverage Update Wednesday Oct. 9, 2024 The county's top officials were working with state and national authorities to coordinate efforts to keep residents informed as Hurricane Milton approached Florida's west coast. Indian River County Emergency Services fully activated the Emergency Operations Center to brace for damaging winds, heavy rainfall and storm surge from Hurricane Milton. Video by Nick Samuel   Strong winds started to pass through Indian River County Wednesday afternoon. Most beachside businesses and restaurants along Ocean Drive put up hurricane shutters and boarded up doors and windows. "We do not wish this storm on anybody. Please be prepared," Emergency Services Deputy Director Ryan Lloyd said. "Later on this evening, ...