Live updates tracking news and messaging from Collier County officials as Hurricane Milton makes its way toward the west coast of Florida.

Hurricane Milton is headed for the west coast of Florida, and right now, it's not clear where it will hit ― but several evacuations in Southwest Florida have already been announced. The city of Marco Island has issued a voluntary evacuation notice in advance of Hurricane Milton, the first in Collier County.

This is a live news blog tracking news and messaging from local officials as Hurricane Milton makes its way toward the west coast of Florida.

Collier County began bracing for Hurricane Milton, with Marco Island issuing a voluntary evacuation Oct. 6 for the island and Goodland, and the county following with a voluntary mandatory evacuation warning Oct.

Press has reporters and photographers covering the latest news in Collier County as residents, businesses and officials prepare for Milton.

Collier County is waiving fares on Collier Area Transit buses and will open nine shelters Oct. 8, including special needs and pet-friendly options, but officials warned they should be a last resort during Hurricane Milton.