Collier and Lee counties executed local state of emergencies in case Hurricane Ian should impact Southwest Florida. Based on the increased intensity of the storm and its current forecasted track and potential storm surge and rainfall, Lee made the decision Monday while Collier did so Sunday. A state of local emergency helps municipalities and counties prepare for and respond to situations such as hurricanes. It helps with governmental procurement processes, helps the community receive funds for recovery, and enables the ability of government to make decisions in response to the emergency that can be subsequently ratified.