Thursday morning, Florida Gov. Rick Scott gave a news conference in Stuart, warning the state's residents that Hurricane Matthew should not be underestimated and saying "protecting life is our number one priority."
Scott urged those in evacuation zones to leave town before the storm hits and thanked Airbnb, which is connecting homeowners with evacuees looking for a free place to crash for a few days. A number of gracious homeowners, mostly in the Central Florida area, have offered their houses and apartments to people evacuating the state's east coast.
Whether you're getting out of South Florida or hunkering down, stay safe and be smart. And if you're looking for a place to stay or have a safe place to offer, check in on Airbnb.
In the meantime, peep these awesome properties, and if you're in an evac zone and haven't left yet, think about hitting up one of these spots:
1. Cozy lakefront house in Orlando
This Orlando lake house fits three people and includes a grill and a sailboat, although you probably won’t be using those anytime soon. It also comes with a cat named Chili Pepper, who we hope enjoys mid-hurricane snuggles.
2. Zen loft in Orlando
This loft in the Baldwin Park neighborhood of Orlando sleeps one and is chill enough to take your mind off the storm. Plus, there’s free parking.
3. Room in Winter Park
This room in Winter Park, just outside Orlando, can accommodate two people and includes its own bathroom. You should definitely not steal that awesome lumbar pillow.
4. Poolside cabana in Orlando
Not exactly a room of its own, but this homeowner in Kissimmee is offering use of a poolside cabana. The ad euphemistically notes you can “sleep under the stars!”
5. Clermont villa
This four-bedroom villa in Clermont is ideal if you have a big family, because it sleeps ten. There’s also a highchair, booster seat, and pack ’n’ play, making it ideal for someone with young kids.
6. Room in Orlando
This cute room in a house in Orlando is located right off Interstate 4, which is oh-so-convenient for evacuees. Guests will share a bathroom with the host.
7. Bedroom in Orlando
A bedroom in this amazing midcentury home in Orlando is up for grabs. The hosts offer biscuits for breakfast and “are ready to throw the meat or vegetables of your choice on the barbie with dinner,” which is downright adorable.