Monroe County's brand-new Emergency Operations Center (EOC), located at the west end of Marathon Airport, officially went into full operation mode on Monday following its ribbon-cutting ceremony. The state-of-the-art facility, developed in partnership with the National Weather Service (NWS), is designed to serve as the central hub for managing emergency responses across the region.
With a tropical storm warning currently in effect for the Lower Keys and Dry Tortugas, the timing of the EOC's opening couldn't be more critical. Local officials from Key West and across Monroe County are closely monitoring weather conditions as the storm threatens to bring severe impacts to the area.
The NWS has warned of possible saltwater flooding, intense wind gusts, and heavy rainfall, with totals expected to reach between 3 to 6 inches. These conditions are expected to develop as the tropical storm moves closer, putting residents on high alert.
In anticipation of worsening conditions, the United States Coast Guard’s Sector Key West has implemented "Port Condition X-Ray." This status indicates that the region could see sustained winds exceeding 39 mph within the next 48 hours, prompting heightened readiness for potential disruptions to maritime operations.
Residents and businesses are encouraged to stay informed by checking the Coast Guard’s Homeport website for updates on port conditions. WKWF Radio (AM 1600 - FM 103.3) is also providing continuous updates from the National Weather Service throughout the day to keep the public informed on the evolving situation.
Monroe County officials stress the importance of preparedness as they utilize the new EOC to coordinate response efforts and ensure public safety during the storm.