life-threatening storm surge for some parts of the storms outer bands. already causing flooding from some coastal areas. federal emergency agency urging residents to take the storm seriously and evacuate. >> encouraging all floridians to take this storm seriously. storms very strong and is expected to strengthen to a major hurricane by the time it makes landfall. due to high surface temperatures in the gulf of mexico. it means heavy winds, high winds, heavy rain and forecasted 12 foot storm surge. >> still, that is we often seen situations like this. some living near the path of this hurricane have chosen to stay put. cnn's brian todd has details. >> much of florida bracing for direct impact. >> time is running short. make sure you are prepared for