Florida governor Rick Scott has urged residents to pay heed to evacuation calls and not to take them lightly.

"Do not take this lightly- take action now to protect your life & the life of your family. Stay vigilant & listen to your local authorities and local news reports for the most up-to-date information," Scott tweeted.

According to authorities, more than 370,000 people in the state have been ordered to evacuate.

It has also declared a state of emergency in Florida along with Georgia and Alabama.

Michael, which is expected to weaken after making landfall, is packing up wind speeds up to 210 km/h.

"Storm surge can occur before, during, or after the center of a storm passes through an area. I’m asking all Floridians to stay vigilant throughout tonight and tomorrow as we brace for Hurricane Michael to make landfall," Scott said.

According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), a Miami-based weather service, storm surge could be as high as 13 feet.

Officials have shut down schools and offices for the week.

Image: twitter.com/NHC_Atlantic