MIAMI-DADE COUNTY – As the final effects of Tropical Storm Ernesto pass over South Florida, emergency management officials begin damage assessments and make plans for county facilities and services to resume standard operations. A flood watch is still in effect for Miami-Dade as heavy rainfall is expected throughout the day.
Miami-Dade County Schools and Courts will remain closed Wednesday, August 30th and will be open on Thursday, the 31st. Metro Bus resumed operation at 3 a.m. and Metro Rail resumed operation at 5 a.m., both on regular schedules. Garbage pick-up will operate on regular schedule today. Debris pick-up information will be announced later today.
1118 people weathered the storm in our general population shelters, 40 people in special needs shelters, and 2 people with pets stayed at our pet-friendly shelters. All shelters will remain open until it is safe for residents to return to their homes.
Residents and visitors with travel plans should contact their agents or carriers for updates. Miami International Airport announced the first incoming flight will be at 7 a.m. and the first outgoing flight will be at 11 a.m., with regular operations continuing thereafter. The seaport remains closed to marine traffic at this time.
Residents should stay tuned to local media for updated information about facilities and services returning to regular operations. Before visiting any county office or facility, residents should contact the Miami-Dade Answer Center for confirmation of operating hours.
As of 4 a.m. today, Miami-Dade Answer Center has received more than 25,000 phone calls.
The Miami-Dade Answer Center will remain open until further notice. Residents can call 3-1-1 in Miami-Dade or (305) 468-5900 outside of Miami-Dade County, TDD: (305) 468-5402. Specialists are taking calls in English, Spanish & Creole. Residents can access disaster preparedness and recovery related information 24-hours a day on the Office of Emergency Management website at www.miamidade.gov/emergency.
