SEMINOLE

OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — Three local counties have issued emergency burn bans this month due to dry weather conditions. Orange County is the latest is issue a burn ban effective Wednesday. Seminole and Osceola counties issued emergency bans since last week. Read: Seminole County issues emergency burn banThe use of above-ground charcoal, gas, and electric grills is allowed, but you’re encouraged to make sure charcoals are extinguished completely. Click here for a list of 9 tips to help keep your home and family safe during wildfire season.

Drought concerns are rising throughout Central Florida, and as of Tuesday, officials in Brevard, Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties instituted emergency burn bans in an effort to prevent fires from going out of control.

Orlando Guardians quarterback Deondre Francois' frustrations during the XFL team’s home opening loss against the San Antonio Brahmas on Sunday was caught on mics.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Editor’s note: This story is available as a result of a content partnership between WFTV and the Orlando Business Journal. Two commercial real estate sales valued at about $65 million posted to public records in Orange and Seminole counties last week, topping the Orlando metro’s list of high-dollar deals. Read: Florida mom allows 9-year-old to drive before child crashes car into wall, police sayIn east Orange County, the 346-unit Lakeside Villas apartment community sold for $65.25 million — or $188,584 per unit — on Feb. 7 and posted to public records Feb. 8. In Seminole County, a 42-acre industrial property in Sanford that included three new warehouse buildings finished in 2022 sold for $65.17 million on Feb. 2 in a deal that posted to public records Feb. 6. Click here to read the full story on the Orlando Business Journal’s website.

Operation Best Foot Forward is returning to Central Florida for another year of pedestrian safety and an enforcement of Florida’s driver yield law.

Central Florida volunteers are working to combat homelessness by gathering data that will help allocate federal resources, understand local trends and inform policy change.

Thousands of Duke Energy customers are without power in Orange and Seminole counties on Christmas Eve, according to an outage map on the company’s website.

CLEARWATER, Fla. — A Florida man is accused of being the driver of a vehicle when a pedestrian was killed last year, instead of the woman who was originally charged, authorities said. During the course of their investigation, deputies said Garabrant was captured on video leaving The Liquid Therapy Bar in Pinellas Park minutes before the crash, WFLA-TV reported. According to the sheriff’s office news release, investigators alleged that Garabrant admitted to the owner of the bar that he was the driver and should have been arrested. Investigators also determined that Mashtare, now 55, was the passenger in the vehicle, the Times reported. Her DUI manslaughter charge will be amended to a DUI, the sheriff’s office said.

ORLANDO, Fla. -- Lake Mary upset Seminole 12-8 Saturday night to advance to the regional final. Noah Grubbs found Caden Harshbarger with under ninety seconds left for the game-winning touchdown. The Rams will visit Apopka on Friday. The Blue Darters handled busines against Winter Park Saturday 28-7. Friday’s regional final is set for 7:00.

Heart of Florida United Way distributed 4,000 thanksgiving meal kits to families across Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties.

The Officers of the United States Attorneys recognized investigators Tuesday in Seminole and Brevard counties for helping to put those who prey on children behind bars. Each department has investigated more than 100 child exploitation cases and put away 100 criminals. Photos: Seminole, Brevard investigators honored for work on child exploitation casesExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 8 Seminole, Brevard investigators honored for work on child exploitation casesSeminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma and Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey accepted awards on behalf of the investigators. Watch: NASA’s Artemis I rocket begins journey to moon after launching from Florida’s Space Coast“We find dedicated, professionally trained to make it their lives’ work to protect abused and neglected and abandoned children,” Lemma said. Read: Walt Disney World picks developer for 1,300-unit affordable housing projectEach investigator was awarded separately in an off-camera ceremony.

The Florida Public Service Commission on Wednesday morning began to chart power outages attributed to Hurricane Nicole.

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in both Seminole and Marion county recognize November as National Diabetes Awareness Month. National Diabetes Awareness Month is observed every year to raise awareness and to combat the disease as a critical health issue. The DSME program consists of eight sessions of individualized instruction, either by phone, online or in person. The DSME program will also provide diabetes supplies for low-income individuals. Diabetes: What you need to know Diabetes: What you need to know (NCD)©2022 Cox Media Group

ORLANDO, Fla. -- Apopka beat Seminole 24-23 on a game-winning field goal Tuesday night to win the district title. At West Orange, the Warriors beat Ocoee 41-17 to become repeat district champs for just the second time in school history. ©2022 Cox Media Group

The Department of Children and Families announced on Sunday that the third phase of the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or D-SNAP, will open on Monday, Oct. 24 for Lake, Osceola, Seminole and Volusia county residents affected by Hurricane Ian.

As the recovery continues, the county is concerned about wells that may be damaged by floodwater. They say a well affected by floodwater may have disease-causing organisms in the water, making it unsafe to drink.

ORLANDO, Fla. — A week after Hurricane Ian tore through Central Florida high school football is back in fill swing for week seven. This week, we had Monday night lights, Tuesday night lights, games on Thursday and of course, Friday night football. Check out all the highlights from week seven, including our McCoy Federal Credit Union game of the week featuring a powerhouse matchup from Brevard and Seminole counties, Cocoa High School versus Seminole High School. Photos: Walt Disney World kicks off HBCU WeekRead: College Football returns to WFTV Channel 9You can watch WFTV Football Friday Night presented by McCoy Federal Credit Union every Friday night after WFTV Tonight at 11:30 p.m.Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. ©2022 Cox Media Group

CLOUD, Fla. — Floodwaters are continuing to rise in Osceola County as water from Orange and Seminole counties flow south following Hurricane Ian. Read: Floodwaters continuing to rise in St. Cloud days after Hurricane IanSouth Florida Water Management District officials say it is working with Osceola and Orange counties to get water levels under control. Cloud residents evacuate as water expected to rise after IanVideo: Vandalized pipe may cause St. Cloud officials said the vandalization of an outfall pipe near neighborhoods flooded by Hurricane Ian could cause those floodwaters to rise more quickly.

BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. — Flooding from Hurricane Ian has impacted State Road 46, a major roadway for residents in Brevard, Volusia and Seminole counties. Florida Highway Patrol was forced to close the roadway between Hatbill Road in Mims and Jungle Road in Geneva. READ: ‘They didn’t care about us’: Orlo Vista residents frustrated with county’s response to Hurricane IanA detour has been set up around a bridge that takes drivers directly into Geneva. Commuters now have to head east onto SR 46 then take Interstate 95 to State Road 50 to the 417. READ: Astor residents deal with record flooding after Hurricane Ian'The worst I've seen': Volusia County officials rush to repair seawall damage from Hurricane Ian Even with the sun shining over the ocean waves, there are lingering signs of the impact of Hurricane Ian in Daytona Beach.

Hurricane watches were issued in Orange, Seminole, Brevard and Osceola counties early Wednesday morning head of Hurricane Ian's arrival in the region later today. The...

ORLANDO, Fla. — Publix locations in seven Central Florida counties will close early on Wednesday due to Hurricane Ian. Publix officials said locations in Sumter, Orange, Lake (717 N. 14th St., Leesburg and 1120 Bichara Blvd., The Villages), Seminole, Marion, Osceola, and Volusia counties will close at 6 p.m. on Wednesday. Those locations are expected to stay closed through Thursday and reopen on Friday. Read: Hurricane Ian: County-by-county guide to shelter locations in Central FloridaClick here for the latest updates. Video: Last-minute shoppers find some shelves empty as Central Florida prepares for Hurricane Ian As many in Central Florida make last-minute preparations ahead of Hurricane Ian, stores are starting to fill up with last-minute shoppers.

As Hurricane Ian gains strength in the Gulf of Mexico, Florida counties are preparing for the storm impacts it will bring.

Rain, rain here to stay.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex has created a special Mercury Offer for residents of Orange, Volusia, Seminole and Osceola counties.

Storms, storms and more storms.

Another round of strong storms are expected in Central Florida.

Florida's primaries are just over two weeks away, and now every Central Florida county is offering early voting.

Storms are getting an earlier, but more typical, start on Tuesday, Channel 9 Certified Chief Meteorologist Tom Terry said. A severe thunderstorm warning is in effect for Seminole and Volusia counties. READ: Tuesday’s forecast: Morning stormy spots, rain chances rise this afternoonAs expected, severe storm along the St. Johns River slowly moving south. @WFTV pic.twitter.com/y162CtSbCd — Tom Terry (@TTerryWFTV) August 2, 2022The seabreeze moving inland and colder air in the upper atmosphere will work together to bring heavy or briefly severe storms to the area, Terry said. The threat of lightning, gusts of wind up to 50 mph and hail are all on tap for Tuesday, Terry said.

Video: Lake and Seminole firefighters battle blaze after possible arson at home Firefighters in Lake and Seminole counties responded to a fire at a home in Montverde overnight. (WFTV)LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — Firefighters in Lake and Seminole counties responded to a fire at a home in Montverde overnight. As crews arrived at the home on 4th Street in Montverde, flames and smoke could be seen rising out. Photos: Lake and Seminole firefighters battle blaze after possible arson at homeExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 10 Lake and Seminole firefighters battle blaze after possible arson at homeUnites with the Seminole County Fire Department were called in to assist in the firefight. READ: Coronavirus: President Biden tests positive again for COVID-19Crews worked together to battle the blaze after two people were evacuated from inside the home.

SEMINOLE, Okla. — Two people have been arrested after a toddler’s burned remains were discovered in Oklahoma, according to police. >> Read more trending newsThe Seminole Police Department received a tip around 11 p.m. on Tuesday that led officers to an area where burned remains were discovered, according to KOKI. According to a press release from the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, who is assisting SPD with the investigation, the officers learned that the remains were of a toddler. OSBI said both Jennings and Penner were arrested. Penner has been booked on recommended charges of accessory to murder, child abuse by injury and desecration of a human corpse.

They were guaranteed the rights of citizens of the tribes under separate 1866 treaties with the United States. “We must stand by the rights promised to Freedmen in the treaties that guaranteed those rights over a century ago,” Waters said. But Seminole Nation Assistant Chief Brian Thomas Palmer said the nation has recognized the right of Freedmen to become citizens since 1866. BIA Assistant Secretary Bryan Newland told the committee that the bureau relies on the tribes to determine tribal citizenship. Chairman, I offer an apology on behalf of the Cherokee Nation for these actions,” Hoskin told committee Chair Sen. Brian Schatz, a Democrat, of Hawaii.

Leaders and representatives of five Oklahoma-based tribes have told a U.S. Senate committee they have followed treaties and court rulings regarding the citizenship of Freedmen and that the federal government should respect their sovereignty.

It is H-O-T!

We are cranking up the thermostat even further Saturday. Highs top out in the upper 90s later in the day. With the humidity factored in it will feel more like 100-110 degrees.

Most of us Floridians can go through our entire lives without coming face to face with an alligator, even though they’re all over the place.

We are once again pinpointing afternoon and evening scattered showers and storms across Central Florida.

Video: Deputies: Felon charged with murder after Seminole man’s body found in burning shed Deputies have arrested a man for the murder of a 21-year-old man in Seminole County. (WFTV)SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — Deputies have arrested a man for the murder of a 21-year-old man in Seminole County. Lewis Boon, 24, is a felon who had been arrested on weapons charges earlier this month, and he is now facing a murder charge. Boone said nothing in court Thursday afternoon while facing charges of premeditated murder and destroying evidence. The body turned out to be that of 21-year-old Jaylyn McIntyre who had lived a couple of blocks away on Terry Lane.

SANFORD, Fla. — Prosecutors said three people were charged Tuesday in connection with a “ghost candidate” controversy during the 2020 election. The charges are related to the 2020 race for the District 9 Florida Senate seat, which covers parts of Seminole and Volusia counties. Republican Jason Brodeur defeated Democrat Patricia Sigman in that race, but a third-party “ghost candidate,” Jestine Iannotti, also played into the defeat. Read: From flatscreens to trucks, Orange County Comptroller’s online auction opens May 25Iannotti, the independent candidate in that race, and political operatives James Foglesong and Benjamin Paris were all charged in connection with the investigation. VIDEO: 3rd party ghost candidate in local Senate race the focus of FDLE investigation The FDLE is looking into allegations associated with the recent Senate District 9 election that covers Seminole and part of Volusia counties.

Rent increases may have hit their peak, according to a new forecast from the Apartment Association of Greater Orlando.

Severe Weather Oklahoma Surrounded by tornado damage Paul Campbell, Founder of the academy of Seminole sits outside of the school in Seminole, Okla. on Thursday, May, 5, 2022. A springtime storm system spawned several tornadoes that whipped through areas of Texas and Oklahoma, causing damage to a school, a marijuana farm and other structures. (Sarah Phipps/The Oklahoman via AP) (Sarah Phipps)SEMINOLE, Okla. — (AP) — A storm system spawned several tornadoes that whipped through areas of Texas and Oklahoma, causing damage to a school, a marijuana farm and other structures. Significant damage was reported in the Oklahoma city of Seminole, about 60 miles (97 kilometers) southeast of Oklahoma City, where Gov. Video footage from Oklahoma TV station KOCO showed a tornado hit a marijuana farm in the nearby town of Maud.

Severe Weather Oklahoma Debris covers the sign for The Academy of Seminole after severe weather passed the area in Seminole, Okla., on Wednesday, May 4, 2022. A springtime storm system spawned several tornadoes that whipped through areas of Texas and Oklahoma, causing damage to a school, a marijuana farm and other structures. (KOKH via AP) (Uncredited)SEMINOLE, Okla. — (AP) — A springtime storm system spawned several tornadoes that whipped through areas of Texas and Oklahoma, causing damage to a school, a marijuana farm and other structures. Significant damage was reported in the Oklahoma city of Seminole, about 60 miles (97 kilometers) southeast of Oklahoma City, the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management said. The Wednesday storms were the latest in several rounds of severe weather in the central United States.

VIDEO: Proposed development causing concern for Orange, Seminole counties Proposed development causing concern for Orange, Seminole countiesORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A controversial proposed development in Eastern Orange County may finally be moving forward. But the project, which calls for thousands of homes, could cause issues for Seminole County. READ: Environmental group to fight state agency’s approval of toll road through Split Oak ForestThe area in question is a large swath of land along the Orange and Seminole county line near North Lake Pickett and west of Chuluota Road. READ: Lake Mary Jane suing to protect against potential developmentThe Orange County commissioner chairperson sent Orange County leaders a letter alerting them to three big areas of concern: fire service, stormwater runoff and traffic. READ: Officials working to address increase in tent cities sprouting up in OrlandoSee the full story in the video above.

It’s no secret it has been very wet lately, but it doesn’t take much to dry things out in the Sunshine State.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Sunday starts off pleasant with temperatures in the 60s and patchy fog in some areas. A dense fog advisory is in place for parts of Seminole and Volusia counties this morning until 10 a.m.Sanford and Deland will see the thickest fog Sunday morning. Skies will clear by Sunday afternoon, and we will see sunny skies. Read: Travelers face surge of flight delays, cancellations at Orlando International AirportTemperatures will reach the upper 70s and low 80s. Read: 2 struck by lightning while leaving Yankees spring training game in Tampa, police sayChief meteorologist Tom TerryClick here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.

ORLANDO, Fla. — A flood advisory is in effect for several Central Florida counties as a line of storms moves through the area. The flood advisory will be in effect for Orange, Seminole, Lake and Volusia counties until 7:15 a.m. READ: Fatal crash shuts down part of SR-408 in Orange CountyThe line of showers and storms will slowly drift southward through the day. The threat of severe weather has increased slightly, putting most of Central Florida at risk of isolated severe storms. Flood Advisory has been issued as street flooding is possible, especially near low lying areas and areas with poor drainage.

During the fifth annual Children’s Safety Village Community Heroes event, first responders from Seminole and Orange counties came together to honor the efforts of their colleagues and people in the community who are impacting the lives of children through safety.

More rain is headed our way.

A tornado watch was issued by the National Weather Service Saturday morning for Marion, Flagler, Sumter, Lake, Volusia, Seminole, Orange, Polk, Osceola and Brevard counties, lasting until 11 a.m.

Check out the Sonic Prep Player of the Week featuring the Henderson twins at Seminole High School.

The teen accused of shooting another student at Seminole High School last month will now be charged as an adult.

The domestic violence charge filed against former Winter Park police chief John Michael Dean has now been dropped.

Falling snow is not a common sight in Central Florida.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Fog will blanket parts of Central Florida Thursday morning. There is a dense fog advisory in effect for Orange, Osceola, Sumter, Polk, Seminole, Lake, Marion and Flagler counties. Temperatures will again be near records, with highs widespread in the 80s. READ: Cleaning service worker attacked by tiger at Florida zooLooking ahead, temperatures will stay warm through the new year. A quick front will bring some rain on Sunday and a short blast of cold weather.

Heart of Florida United Way The Heart of Florida United Way is distributing $1.27 million to 15 nonprofits across Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties to address needs across the community. (WFTV.com News Staff)ORLANDO, Fla. — The Heart of Florida United Way is distributing $1.27 million to 15 nonprofits across Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties to address needs across the community. Catholic Charities of Central Florida Inc.: $45,0002. Christian Service Center for Central Florida Inc.: $70,000READ: Recall alert: Target Christmas decorations4. Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida: $130,00014.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Last week, incidents at three high schools across Seminole and Orange counties resulted in at least 14 students being arrested for violence or threats. This weekend, Orange County Superintendent Barbara Jenkins issued a message to OCPS families that any violence or threats of violence, real or a prank, will not be tolerated. In early December, a fight led to a shooting outside Carver Middle School in Orlando. On Monday, Orange County Public Schools District 5 School Board member Vicki-Elaine Felder will host a community meeting to address the safety of students in the community surrounding Carver Middle School and Eccleston Elementary. Read: High-speed crash forces Winter Garden Christmas parade to be canceledThe town hall meeting will happen inside Carver Middle School at 6:30 p.m. Monday.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Get ready for another foggy start in Central Florida. A dense fog advisory is in place for Marion, Polk, Volusia, Lake, Sumter, Orange, Seminole and Osceola. It will be in place until 9 a.m.Daytime highs will be in the mid-to upper 80s across Central Florida. Meteorologist Brian Shields said we will have a good deal of sunshine today. A front will move in on Sunday, which will drop the temperatures into the upper-70s.

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Incidents at three separate high schools across Seminole and Orange counties resulted in at least 14 students arrested Thursday, police and family members told Eyewitness News. Videos captured multiple unrelated brawls at Oviedo High School in the school yard, cafeteria and a classroom. Oviedo police said 12 students were arrested and likely faced charges of disrupting school operations. However, school officials nationwide are reporting surges in both gun- and non-gun related events since the start of the 2021-2022 school year. It’s got to be dealt with.”His sentiment was echoed by Oviedo High School’s principal.

ORLANDO, Fla. — A dense fog advisory is in place for several Central Florida counties. A blanket of fog is covering parts of Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Lake, Marion, Volusia, Polk and Sumter counties. The advisory will be in place until 8 a.m. By the afternoon, temperatures will start to heat up to the upper 70s to low 80s. Visit our hurricane section: EYE ON THE TROPICSOrlando Wetlands sunrise (James Werner)Follow our Severe Weather team on Twitter for live updates:©2021 Cox Media Group

Heart of Florida United Way is making sure struggling families across Central Florida have a Thanksgiving feast this year.

A former accountant with Kids House of Seminole, a Children’s Advocacy Center in Sanford, was arrested Thursday after having fraudulently obtained $129,231.54 from the non-profit, according to the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office.

ORLANDO, Fla. — School districts around Central Florida have issued a weather alert over the threat of severe storms Thursday afternoon. Parents/guardians, be prepared for possible storms and severe weather this afternoon and keep in mind this may result in some transportation delays. pic.twitter.com/Fv6bR6oHq3 — ocpsnews (@OCPSnews) October 28, 2021School leaders said parents should plan for possible dismissal delays caused by afternoon thunderstorms. There may also be bus transportation delays if students are kept inside over safety concerns. Channel 9 will have continuing coverage of the afternoon storms and provide major updates on Eyewitness News.

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Student mask policy rules will be loosened at schools in Brevard and Marion counties. Other school districts, like Seminole and Orange counties, are set to drop their mandates at the end of the week. “Our numbers are improving in different areas, but we’re so close to a new goal with children 5 to 11,” said Jenifer Hill, an Orange County school district parent. The current school district mask mandate ends Saturday. Hill believes the longer we use precautions, the safer we’ll be keeping COVID-19 out of the classroom.

The Florida Department of Transportation and troopers are hoping new technology will stop wrong-way drivers from causing serious crashes along Interstate 4.

A 31-year-old man from Seminole, Fla. was arrested this week for threatening to blow up the homes of Walt Disney World executives. According to the...

Students in Orange, Seminole, Brevard, Lake, Sumter, Marion, Flagler and Polk counties will return Tuesday. Osceola County students will return to school on Thursday, and students in Volusia County will return Aug. 16. READ: Back-to-school: What you need to know for your 1st day backStudents have the option to leave masks at home in Brevard, Polk, Volusia, Osceola, Sumter, Flagler, Lake and Marion counties. In Seminole County, hundreds of school buses will hit the road for the start of the new school year. In Orange County, district leaders are going as far as discouraging bus riding for parents who have extra time in the mornings.

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — Volusia County could join the list of school districts mandating masks for student this school year. Some board members in Volusia County favor mirroring that policy. While it’s not an item on Tuesday’s agenda, it’s one some board members feel must be brought up. The current policy in Volusia County allows parents to choose the option of deciding whether to mask their children or not. The teachers union is surveying its members on masks, vaccines and other matters, and those results are not yet available.

Crews from Orange, Seminole, Lake and Marion counties are helping in the search for survivors in the debris left over after the Champlain Towers collapsed early Thursday morning in South Florida.

The state attorney for Brevard and Seminole counties announced on Wednesday that he would not seek to relitigate the sentencing of a man who killed a Brevard County deputy in 2012.

Crystal Lagoons Crystal Lagoons said it plans to open “Public Access Lagoons” in five Central Florida counties: Lake, Orange, Seminole, Osceola and Sumter. But one company is working to change that by recreating white sand beaches and turquoise waters in landlocked Central Florida communities. Crystal Lagoons said it plans to open “Public Access Lagoons” in five Central Florida counties: Lake, Orange, Seminole, Osceola and Sumter. The company said it specializes in creating “crystal-clear lagoons that bring the luxury of a beachfront experience anywhere in the world at very low costs.”READ: Farms in downtown Orlando? See photos provided by Crystal Lagoons below:

Florida lawmakers will meet in a special session later this month to discuss a new gambling agreement.

Strong storms are moving through Central Florida.

A Red flag warning has been issued by the National Weather Service for interior Central Florida including Lake, Orange, Seminole, Osceola, and interior Volusia county through Saturday evening.

(Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)INDIANAPOLIS – Florida State barely reveled in its return to the Sweet 16 — exactly as Seminoles coach Leonard Hamilton wanted. 4 seed Florida State pulled away in the second half to beat Colorado 71-53 Monday night and advance to the regional semifinal for the third straight NCAA Tournament. AdColorado trimmed its deficit to a point on a 3-pointer by Schwartz, but Florida State quickly answered with a thunderous alley-oop dunk by Sardaar Calhoun. Minutes later, Balsa Koprivica dunked, was fouled and made the free throw to put Florida State up nine. Florida State remained in control, stretching its lead to 19 points.

ORLANDO, Fla. – Health officials in Osceola and Seminole counties said on Friday the progress with the Johnson and Johnson vaccine is welcoming news for Central Florida. Health officials also said more underserved communities can be reached once there is more supply. [RELATED: J&J’s 1-dose shot cleared, giving US 3rd COVID-19 vaccine]What’s different is the Johnson and Johnson vaccine is a single dose vaccine, not one that requires two shots like the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. Health leaders said more vaccines available mean more access. Health officials said with the Johnson & Johnson vaccine only requiring refrigeration storage, it will require less resources and logistics, making it easier to distribute to minority communities.

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – Seniors needing a ride to their vaccine appointment at the Orange County Convention Center can ride for free with Lynx. Anyone in Orange, Osceola or Seminole with a vaccine appointment can call 311 to schedule a pickup, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings said Thursday during a coronavirus update. Deming said 311 will coordinated with the Office of Emergency Management to arrange the ride. “When a ride is scheduled you’ll get a ride from home to the Convention Center,” Demings said where a “Lynx driver will wait with the senior for entire process then take them home.”Masks must be worn the entire time. The program is for the Convention Center vaccine site only.

The Tornado Watch that had been in effect has been allowed to expire for all of Central Florida. SEVERE WEATHER THREAT SUNDAY MORNINGA cold front is moving through Central Florida producing downpours and storms. A few storms could be strong through the late morning, but the severe threat is lowering across Central Florida. An isolated damaging wind gust or brief tornado is still possible southeast of I-4, but the severe weather threat has come to an end along and northwest of I-4. Future radarMost of Central Florida is dry by noon.

The drier air combined with dry conditions the region has experienced during the past several months will create an enhanced risk for wildfires to start Thursday. Most of Central Florida is running 3 to 5 inches below normal in the rainfall department dating back to Dec. 1, 2020. The gusty winds that will accompany the cold front will create an environment for any fire that ignites to potentially spread rapidly. Wind gust forecast ThursdayThe greatest risk for wildfires to start and spread will be when the relative humidity is at its lowest between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Thursday. The relative humidity naturally rises at night when the temperatures drops closer to the dewpoint.

ORLANDO, Fla. – Did you hear loud booms and feel your house shake Thursday? Turns out, it was caused by the Navy dropping bombs during training in Central Florida. Residents across Seminole and Orange counties called 911 about the “booms” and posted questions on Facebook groups looking for answers. It’s common for F-18 jet fighters and other Navy aircraft to drop bombs in the middle of the range. Anyone who has a noise complaint is asked to call the Fleet Area Control and Surveillance Facility in Jacksonville at 800-874-5059.

Meanwhile, Florida reported its highest positivity rate for new infections in months. The state Department of Health attributed the rate reported Tuesday was over 22% due to less people being tested. [READ YESTERDAY’S REPORT: Florida reports 8,000 new COVID-19 cases as vaccination efforts continue]Across Central Florida, elderly residents, who are the most vulnerable, are also anxiously awaiting word on when they’ll be able to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Below is a breakdown of Florida COVID-19 data reported by the state on Dec. 29:CasesThe Florida Department of Health reported 11,887 new cases on Tuesday, bringing the state’s overall total to 1,292,252 cases since March. Editor’s note: Along with the resources previously utilized by News 6 (state and county-by-county data), as of Dec. 7, WKMG has added state data pulled from the Florida Department of Health’s Florida COVID19 State Testing Totals.

ORLANDO, Fla. – Foggy conditions are expected to continue into Sunday morning across much of Central Florida. Minimal rain chances are expected throughout Sunday, after the fog dissipates this morning, skies will remain partly to mostly cloudy. Overnight lows will drop into the low 60s. The first will move through the area on Monday, bringing a slight 10 percent chance of rain with highs cooling back to near normal, in the mid 70s Tuesday and Wednesday. By the latter part of the week, highs will drop back in the mid 60s with overnight lows into the 40s.

LAKE COUNTY, Fla. – A woman was rushed to the hospital after a shooting in downtown Eustis at the “Light-Up” Eustis event, according to the police department. [TRENDING: Video reveals huge hammerhead shark circling clueless swimmer in Florida | Florida reports latest coronavirus numbers | ‘Disturbing’ video sent to Seminole students]Eustis police the victim was shot in the arm around 9:38 p.m. on Friday. The woman was standing several feet from where the shooting happened and was not the intended target, according to officials. Investigators said she was transported to the Central Florida Regional Hospital in Sanford. Anyone with information is asked to contact Eustis police or Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS.

Incumbent Stephanie Murphy currently holds the seat for U.S. House District 7 but is facing two challengers seeking to replace her in the November election. Stephanie Murphy (D)Congresswoman Murphy first assumed office in 2017. Before becoming a congresswoman, she served in the Office of the U.S. Secretary of Defense and was a businesswoman and instructor. On his campaign website, he explains where he stands on key issues like border security and immigration, education and health care. Click here or visit ClickOrlando.com/results2020 to learn more about what you can expect to see on your ballot.

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. The Postal Service in Central Florida is set to hire 1,000 employees in Central Florida. USPS said successful applicants will work at one of seven mail processing and distribution centers from Nov. 7 through Jan. 1. The openings include:Mail Processing Clerk pays $18.15 an hourMail Handler Assistant pays $16.55 an hourUSPS said positions are open in:Fort MyersMid Florida (Lake Mary)OrlandoSeminoleManasotaTampaYborPositions will also be available at annexes in Lakeland, Melbourne, and Tampa, according to the USPS. Anyone interested in applying can click on this link, applications for the positions listed above we be from Sept. 8 through Sept. 12.

Floridas primary election is Aug. 18 and News 6 wants to help you get to know the candidates of the U.S. House District 7 race before you cast your vote. Lets get to know more about the candidates voters can expect to see on their ballots. Click here to learn more about Gobles campaign for U.S. House District 7. Click or tap here to learn more about Valentns career and election campaign. Learn more about Zhaos career and election campaign here.

Today's the day: Parents of students in Seminole, Orange counties must choose fall learning optionPublished: July 24, 2020, 7:15 amParents of students in Seminole and Orange counties must choose their preferred fall learning option on Friday.

More than half the parents in Seminole, Orange are still undecided about school optionsPublished: July 23, 2020, 6:21 pmMore than half of the parents in both Seminole and Orange Counties have yet to chose on which options they want to send their students to school next month as that decision deadline looms.

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. A Florida man was gunned down in the parking lot of the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and authorities are searching for the killers. Pierre Jules LaCroze, 37, was shot and killed after driving onto the sixth floor of the parking garage shortly after midnight Thursday, according to Seminole police. Authorities said they want to talk to two men and a woman captured on surveillance video coming off an escalator and entering the casino. Theyre also looking into the car the three left in. The Miami Herald reports the compact four-door gray sedan was missing its right side hubcaps and had a left brake light burned out.

It was vastly different from any PGA Tour broadcast on network TV, said Greg Hopfe, executive producer of PGA Tour Entertainment. With so few cameras a typical PGA Tour event on network TV has about 20 cameras players at times were held in place to allow the cameras to get in position. It all was done with a conservative return to golf, following CDC guidelines and keeping contact minimal. Everyone who worked the event 28 people at Seminole, 23 people at PGA Tour Entertainment offices in St. Augustine were tested for the new coronavirus. It's roughly 1,000 miles from Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, to Fort Worth, and then 1,000 to Hilton Head for the RBC Heritage, and just under 1,000 miles to Cromwell, Connecticut, for the Travelers Championship.

(AP Photo/Kamran Jebreili, File)Live golf returns to television on Sunday, and it might not look entirely familiar except for the players. The only rake on the golf course will be carried by a PGA Tour rules official. Farmers Insurance is pledging $1 million toward birdies and eagles that goes to healthcare workers, and PGA Tour Charities has an online donation program during the telecast. Within the golf community, the golf course is a big part of why people are excited about it, McIlroy said on the podcast. The PGA Tour has had 10 tournaments canceled or postponed since the last one completed, the Arnold Palmer Invitational.

After several days of rain, wind and hot temperatures, confirmed tornadoes were spotted across Central Florida in Seminole and Volusia counties Monday morning, according to the National Weather Service in Melbourne. After several days of rain, wind and hot temperatures, confirmed tornadoes were spotted across Central Florida in Seminole and Volusia counties Monday morning, according to the National Weather Service in Melbourne. A tornado was spotted in Lake Jessup heading eastbound near state road 417, weather service meteorologists confirmed. Another tornado was confirmed spotted heading eastbound in Maytown, around 7 miles west of Scottsmoor and southwest of Oak Hill. Forecasters from the weather service havent confirmed whether or not this was from a tornado yet, but said theyre working on gathering information.

click to enlarge Photo via Kona Pok/Facebookclick to enlarge Photo via Kona PokApopka, which gets its name from the Seminole word "Ahapopka" for "potato eating place," is about to get a little taste of Hawaii, as Kona Pok announced plans to move to Orange County's second-largest city this summer. It's the third planned location for the Seminole County-based sushi-in-a-bowl chain.Pok, the cubed, raw-fish dish, is eaten over a sushi-rice bowl or on its own, and has been a Hawaiian dish for centuries. "We cannot wait to introduce our food trailer in Sanford and Apopka," wrote Kona Pok owners Matthew Ting and Ernie Falco III in a release. Their new trailer can also be booked for catering and private events. We will update this post when an opening date is announced.

click to enlarge Photo via Central Florida Jobs with JusticeBrevard, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Seminole and Volusia counties. Fund Our Future campaign started by Florida Education Association, which fights for further investment in teachers, public schools and students. "After the rally in Tallahassee, the momentum continues as educators and all public school employees ask the Legislature to fund our future," said Wendy Doromal, president of the Orange County Classroom Teachers Association, in a press release. "We will be gathering at Lake Eola to let policymakers know that we want to make sure this is really the 'Year of the Teacher.'" Lake Eola Park, at 512 E. Washington St., on Saturday from 1 - 3 p.m. "The Rally Continues" rally at the Northeast lawn ofclick to enlarge Photo via Central Florida Jobs with JusticeFollowing the January teacher rally in Tallahassee to demand higher wages, which saw tens of thousands of participants, Central Florida educators are holding another rally at Lake Eola Park for more funding for public education.Some 1,500 people are expected to join in, according to rally organizers, including educators, teachers, students and union reps fromThe January "Take on Tallahassee" rally at the capitol and downtown Orlando's "The Rally Continues" this weekend both sparked by the statewide

ORLANDO, Fla. - A new study performed by local hospitals and agencies has identified some of the major health concerns among Central Florida residents. The 2019 Community Health Needs Assessment, which was conducted by AdventHealths Central Florida Division, Orlando Health, Aspire Health Partners, local health departments and other health centers, involved polling residents in Orange, Seminole, Lake and Osceola counties about their health and overall well-being. Researchers said the top three health concerns among Central Floridians are access to mental health care services, access to care and food insecurity. AdventHealth is committed to tackling major health issues like access to healthy food and mental health care services, said Daryl Tol, president and CEO of AdventHealths Central Florida Division. Accessing affordable health care is a struggle for 45% of those polled.

MAITLAND, Fla. - Maitland police said a man who broke into several cars, including an unmarked police vehicle, before stealing a woman's keys and car has been arrested. The man was taken into custody inside the RDV Sportsplex, which is across the street from where police said the string of burglaries began. A search was launched for the culprit, who took the car keys from a woman, stole her vehicle and drove away, police said. The man crashed the stolen car on Keller Road and ran away, police said. Residents and drivers were asked to avoid the area near Keller and Maitland Summit Boulevard.

Maitland police and deputies from Seminole and Orange counties are looking for a man accused of breaking into cars and stealing a vehicle. Copyright 2019 by WKMG ClickOrlando - All rights reserved.

ORLANDO, Fla. - Embattled Florida professional guardian Rebecca Fierle is under investigation by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, just days after resigning from more than 40 guardianship cases in Seminole, Hillsborough and Pinellas counties. Fierle was removed by a judge from nearly 100 cases in Orange and Osceola counties last week. She is suspected of filing a do not resuscitate order for a man against his wishes. Sources tell News 6 that the Attorney Generals Office is also investigating Fierles role in an estimated 450 cases in 13 Florida counties. A spokesperson for the FDLE issued a short statement: I can confirm that FDLE has an active investigation against allegations against Rebecca Fierle.Copyright 2019 by WKMG ClickOrlando - All rights reserved.

Authorities say carjackings and armed robberies were reported in Orange, Volusia, Seminole and Lake counties as part of a crime spree.