State-Of-Emergency Declared Ahead of Tropical Depression Eta

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FL — Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez declared a state of emergency as Tropical Depression Eta approaches South Florida.

Based on the storm’s current track, the area may experience an extended period of heavy rainfall and gusty winds through the weekend. Rainfall amounts from Friday night through Monday are expected to range between 6 and 10 inches. Tropical Depression Eta is currently expected to impact South Florida beginning late Saturday afternoon.

"I will be meeting with my senior staff and emergency managers (Friday) evening to ensure that all necessary emergency operations are underway,” Gimenez said. “For now, I urge residents to stay informed as to the storm's track and potential impact. We are looking at experiencing heavy rainfall through Monday and possible tropical storm force winds beginning Sunday."

The county will open an evacuation center for residents living in mobile homes and low-lying areas, and others who need refuge at 2 p.m. on Saturday. This evacuation center will be set up at Gate 2 of The Fairgrounds, which is located at 10901 Coral Way in Miami. Those staying at The Fairgrounds should bring necessities, including blankets, pillows, medicine and required facial coverings.

All residents should secure objects that winds could blow around, such as garbage carts, patio furniture, garden tools and toys.

Miami-Dade County services will continue with normal operations.

The county’s COVID-19 testing sites have closed and will remain closed until the storm passes and conditions are safe to reopen. Some state-run sites will be open on Saturday. To find out if a testing site is open, visit miamidade.gov/covid-testing for a complete list of sites and updated operating hours.