Ernesto Takes Aim at Polk, Highlands

Ernesto

Winds of up to 50 miles per hour and heavy rain is expected in interior sections of the state. Schools in Polk and Highlands counties will be closed tomorrow, although most government offices are expected to remain open.

Governor Bush met today with Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff. The governor says the state is working hand-in-hand with Washington.

BUSH: We have 500 state law enforcement officers that are ready for immediate response efforts. The good news is we have abundant gasoline supplies at our ports. The people have clearly heeded the advice of local officials to be prepared, there are long gas lines still identified, but there's no reason to hoard.

Forecasters say there's a remote chance of Ernesto becoming a hurricane, they warn it could dump up to 15 inches of rain on some parts of the state.