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Charlotte County Opens Refuge of Last Resort Ahead of Tropical Storm Eta

Charlotte County Emergency officials are preparing for Tropical Storm Eta.

The county is under a tropical storm warning, flood watch and storm surge warning. A tornado watch is in effect until 5 p.m..

The Charlotte Department of Emergency Management said on its social media accounts that the highest likelihood for sustained tropical storm force winds is currently along the coast, and inland areas can expect wind gusts of tropical storm strength.

The county opened a refuge of last resort at Centennial Park recreation center in Port Charlotte.

Refuges are not equipped to supply food, water or other provisions. Those who plan to evacuate to a refuge should bring their own in addition to toiletries and personal items such as blankets and clothing.

Andrea Perdomo is a reporter for WGCU News. She started her career in public radio as an intern for the Miami-based NPR station, WLRN. Andrea graduated from Florida International University, where she was a contributing writer for the student-run newspaper, The Panther Press, and was also a member of the university's Society of Professional Journalists chapter.