Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency for seven counties on Monday after heavy rainfall caused widespread flooding, road closures and disruptions to schools and election preparations. Florida Gov.
A flash flood warning was issued for portions of the affected counties as rainfall continued to worsen conditions.
The governor’s executive order said flooding had affected critical infrastructure, including major highways, roads, airports and schools, according to NBC News .
Flooding closes schools and creates midterm election challenges
Under Florida law, election supervisors can designate alternative polling places during a state of emergency if existing locations become unsafe or inaccessible. Officials must notify voters about any changes and provide access to replacement sites. However, officials noted that the current situation developed quickly, leaving less time to inform voters if polling changes become necessary.
Because of weather conditions, while the Viera location remained open, according to the county elections office, some of Bobanic’s election offices in Titusville, Melbourne and Palm Bay temporarily closed.
Brevard Supervisor of Elections Tim Bobanic said election officials were monitoring conditions and preparing backup plans if polling sites became inaccessible. “Yes, we are conducting an election tomorrow,” Bobanic told News Service of Florida. “We will get the word out the best we can,” Bobanic said while discussing possible polling location adjustments.
