Hurricane Matthew Hits US: Evacuations Ordered

Hurricane Matthew has set its sights on the US, and over 2 million people have been urged to evacuate their homes as the storm makes its way past the Bahamas.

CNN noted that the hurricane already killed at least 15 people in Caribbean countries, and by early Thursday, it was seen about 125 miles south of Nassau, Bahamas, and 325 miles from West Palm Beach in Florida. Although not expected to make landfall, the storm center is expected to get "very near" the Atlantic Coast as a possible Category 4 hurricane. A hurricane at this level hasn't been seen in the area since Hurricane Andrew, which devastated the Miami area in 1992.

 The impending weather already had Florida Governor Rick Scott asking President Obama to declare a pre-landfall emergency. In line with this precaution is to have 1,000 more National Guard Members activated to add to the 1,500 already positioned in the state, as well as suspend all tolls in the affected areas.

Voluntary and mandatory evacuations in Florida as warned by the Governor included the Miami area, and extended all the way to the north, past St. Augustine. USA Today reported that Scott implored those who have been ordered to evacuate as instructed, telling reporters at a briefing that "There is absolutely no excuse not to evacuate," adding that "if you are able to leave early, go now, before evacuation-related traffic tie-ups get worse."

He also said that people having a plan for evacuation and safety could be the difference between life and death. Federal Emergency Management Agency chief W. Craig Fugate agreed, saying that residents should take the evacuation orders seriously, as the hurricane is expected to potentially cause significant harm.

Airline passengers are also urged to call before leaving for the airport, as almost 250 flights have already been canceled at Miami International. State Offices, in accordance to the evacuation orders, will also be closed on Thursday and Friday in 26 counties.