Duval County

Extra, early precautions underway for some restaurants due to potential storm threat

VILANO BEACH, Fla. — Some businesses are putting plans in the works out of an abundance of caution as Tropical Storm Isaias moves towards Florida.

Aunt Kate’s has been in St. Augustine for 11 years. It has been hit hard by hurricanes in the past, specifically Matthew and Irma. Hurricane Dorian also brought some flooding to the restaurant.

General Manager, Brian Howell, said he plans to move some tables, take down outdoor tents and be prepared to close if need be. Howell said with the unpredictable weather in Florida, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Howell adds that COVID-19 has added extra steps when it comes to prepping for a storm.

“These tables are at least 6 to 8 feet apart, and from the COVID standpoint that’s good,” Howell said. “But, if we have to move all the tables up against the building, we’re just gonna be able to seat inside-- if we stay open at all.”