DeSantis signs emergency declaration as tropical system forms off Mexico

Gov. Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency in 33 counties ahead of a tropical disturbance that could develop into a tropical storm and hit the Gulf Coast of Florida early next week.

In a written statement, the governor’s office urged people in the area to get ready by reviewing their disaster preparedness plans and stocking disaster supply kits with water, food, and other necessities.

An emergency declaration allows state and local agencies to begin preparing for trouble. The National Hurricane Center is calling the system Invest 93L. At last word it was centered off the Yucatan Penninsula.

“I encourage Floridians to have a plan in place and ensure that their hurricane supply kit is stocked,” the governor said in a written statement.

The counties affected are Alachua, Bay, Calhoun, Charlotte, Citrus, Columbia, DeSoto, Dixie, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Hardee, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor, and Wakulla.