Hurricane Dorian's projected path changes, 'extremely dangerous' Category 5 storm now threatens Georgia and the Carolinas
Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina have declared a state of emergency after fears rise that Hurricane Dorian could make landfall in the states after lashing strong winds and rainfall across the region. Meanwhile, Florida is bracing itself to face the Category 4 storm which is projected to reach Category 5 by Labor Day, September 2, according to weather agencies.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) in Miami, however, has cautioned that its meteorologists continue to remain uncertain whether Dorian would make a direct strike on Florida's east coast or inflict a glancing blow.
Meteorologist Jayme King, early on Saturday morning, said: "Excellent news for Florida this Saturday morning. The official forecast from NHC and the latest model forecasts are pointing toward an offshore Florida track as dangerous Dorian approaches. We're not out of the woods by any stretch, this needs to be watched and all Central Floridians need to be on guard until the storm rides north of our location."
Fears have risen that Dorian could become the most powerful storm to hit Florida's east coast in nearly 30 years. Hurricane Andrew was the most destructive storm to ever hit Florida in August 1992, with wind speeds as high as 165mph. The deadly hurricane claimed 65 lives and caused $27.3billion in damage.
NHC projections have stated that Dorian would hit roughly near Fort Pierce, which is 70 miles north of Mar-a-Lago, where President Donald Trump's resort is located. Forecasters, however, have cautioned that the storm's track continues to remain highly uncertain and even a small deviation could put Dorian offshore.
Trump authorized the Federal Emergency Management Agency to coordinate disaster-relief efforts while declaring a state of emergency in Florida. The president, while talking to reporters, said that "Mar-a-Lago can handle itself" and that he is more worried about Florida, according to the Daily Mail. The Republican, shortly after midnight on Friday, had tweeted that he was "monitoring Hurricane Dorian and receiving frequent briefings and updates."
"This is an extremely dangerous storm, please prepare and be safe," he wrote in his tweet.
Meanwhile, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency in every county of the state and asked the president to declare a pre-landfall disaster for all 67 counties. Reports state that the governor also activated 2,500 members of the National Guard with 1,500 more on standby in the wake of the oncoming storm.
"All residents, especially those along the east coast, need to be prepared for possible impacts. As it increases strength, this storm has the potential to severely damage homes, businesses and buildings, which is why all Floridians should remain vigilant. Do not wait until it is too late to make a plan," DeSantis said.