Town of Palm Beach issues mandatory evacuation order

Mandatory curfew issued for city of Delray Beach

PALM BEACH, Fla. – The town of Palm Beach issued a mandatory evacuation order Wednesday evening, citing the unpredictability of Hurricane Matthew.

Town officials said residents and business owners are urged to take precautions for the storm and to expect roadways to be closed if the storm hits the area hard.

"Every hurricane is different. I've experienced that, but never seen a Category 4 before, so, yeah, we are definitely concerned," Palm Beach business owner Michael Patel said.

According to the town's website, roadways would be closed until authorities can assess possible damage, gas leaks and power outages.

Bridges to the town were locked in the down position at 8 p.m. Wednesday.

Authorities said police will not forcibly remove residents who wish to stay, but will not send rescuers to the area during tropical storm-force winds and deteriorated conditions.

"If anything, you know, I mean, I'm supplied up," Raul Rodriguez, who is planning to stay in Palm Beach during the storm, said. "You know, I've got my generator running."

Meanwhile, Delray Beach police said a mandatory curfew has been issued for the city from 6 p.m. Thursday to 6 a.m. Friday.

Alcohol sales will be suspended during the curfew.

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About the Authors:

Amanda Batchelor is the Digital Executive Producer for Local10.com.