Gov. Rick Scott: 'You need to get to a safe place'

LIST: Mandatory evacuations for Florida, Georgia counties
MAPS: Florida, Georgia evacuation zones
FACEBOOK: Live storm feeds, updates, stories, photos 
TWITTER: Latest on Jacksonville, St. Augustine preparations

Gov. Rick Scott is warning people to leave now if they are in an evacuation zone as Florida begins to feel the effects of Hurricane Irma.

"This is a deadly storm and our state has never seen anything like it," Scott said. "Millions of Floridians will see major hurricane impacts and deadly storm surge and life-threatening winds."

TALKING THE TROPICS: Hurricane Irma headed for Cuba then onto the Keys

Scott said at a Saturday press conference that 25,000 people have already lost power as Irma's winds begin to affect southeast Florida.

More than 50,000 people are already at shelters in Florida and 70 more shelters are expected to open Saturday.

Scott said if anyone in an evacuation zone is still at their house, they need to leave immediately.

MAP, ADDRESSES: Jacksonville-area shelters

"Not tonight, not in an hour. You need to go right now," Scott said.

He warned of deadly storm surge.

"Six to 12 feet - this will cover your house," Scott said. "It flows in fast, very fast, then it flows out. You will not survive."

Anyone who is unable to evacuate for any reason should call 800-342-3557.

Scott said people will see more troopers and law enforcement officers on roadways to make sure traffic is flowing.

He also said the state needs more volunteers, including 1,000 nurses to man shelters.

Nassau County Emergency Management said there is an immediate need for volunteer nurses at the Hilliard shelter.

Cox Media Group