Rick Neale

FLORIDA TODAY

A mandatory evacuation of Brevard County's barrier island began at 3 p.m. Wednesday (Oct. 5).

The evacuation also includes Merritt Island, low-lying flood-prone areas, and mobile or manufactured homes, said Don Walker, county spokesman.

LIST: Open shelters in Brevard County

Hurricane warnings in effect for Florida coast

Hurricane Matthew forces Brevard school closures

* All cruise ships and tankers have found safe harbor and will not conduct operations out of Port Canaveral. Victory Casino Cruises will seek safe harbor elsewhere.

Indian Harbour Beach police posted this warning on the department's Facebook page:

"We are taking this storm seriously, we suggest you have a plan of action for you and your family. Property can be replaced, YOU cannot."

Port Canaveral closing to ships, business on Wednesday

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