Aug 19, 2008 1:13 am US/Eastern
Florida's SW Coast Prepping For Fay's Arrival
FORT MYERS (CBS4) ―
As Tropical Storm Fay lashed the Florida Keys with squally rain bands and gusty winds, storm-weary residents in Ft. Myers prepared in case of the worst.
Areas such as Naples have been receiving heavy rains Monday evening. At about 2a.m. high tide is expected and a storm surge is expected to come through later in the morning, creating a flooding hazard for these coastal areas which are only about 3 feet above sea level. Because of this Collier County emitted a voluntary evacuation order for residents in the coastal zones.
The Satcheoo family, visiting from the United Kingdom, was curious about what would happen as Fay's outer bands reached their hotel.
"We thought we'd stay until we're told not too," said Matt Satcheoo.
Some Ft. Myers' area business owners are not as optimistic about what lies ahead.
"We're right up against the Gulf and when water comes in, especially if it comes in with a high tide, the water flows right over the road to the bay," said Michael Sippel.
Much of southwest Florida's coastline is only about 3 feet above sea level so a storm surge of about 6 feet would put much of the area under water. In 2005, Hurricane Wilma put Everglades City, Marco Island and Naples under water.
Some residents in the evacuation zone left, but many like Larry and Suzie Chafin are planning to ride it out.
"We're just not going anywhere," said Larry Chafin.
(© MMVIII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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