FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. — Florida’s Gulf Coast is on high alert as Hurricane Milton approaches, bringing with it powerful winds and a significant storm surge. Residents are still recovering from the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which struck just 12 days ago and caused extensive destruction.
As of early Tuesday, nearly the entire west coast of Florida was under a hurricane warning. Milton is moving toward the state at a speed of 9 mph (14 kph) with maximum sustained winds reaching 155 mph (250 kph). This storm is one of the most formidable to threaten the region in recent history.
Though Milton was downgraded to a Category 4 hurricane early Tuesday, meteorologists warn it still poses a serious risk to the state. The hurricane had rapidly strengthened to a Category 5 with winds of 180 mph (285 kph) just a day prior before the downgrade.
The storm is expected to make landfall in the Tampa Bay area on Wednesday, a region that has not faced a direct hit from a major hurricane in over a century. Although some weakening is anticipated, Milton may still maintain hurricane status as it traverses central Florida toward the Atlantic. This trajectory could protect states that recently suffered losses from Helene, which resulted in at least 230 fatalities.
Tampa Bay has enjoyed a century without a major hurricane making landfall, but that streak may soon end as the 3.3 million residents brace for the storm. An emergency declaration has been approved for Florida, prompting the mobilization of 7,000 federal personnel to assist in disaster response efforts.
“This is the real deal here with Milton,” Tampa officials stated during a press conference. “If you want to take on Mother Nature, she wins 100% of the time.”
The area is still recovering from the damage caused by Helene, which produced an 8-foot (2.4-meter) storm surge despite being positioned 100 miles (160 kilometers) offshore. The tragic impact of Helene was felt deeply, with 12 lives lost and significant destruction along barrier islands, particularly from St. Petersburg to Clearwater.
Meteorologists are cautioning residents about a potential 8- to 12-foot (2.4- to 3.6-meter) storm surge, leading to evacuation orders for coastal communities. Residents remaining in the area during the hurricane will be on their own, with first responders not planning to risk their safety during the peak of the storm.
Despite previous experiences with storms, many residents are now taking evacuation warnings seriously. A steady influx of vehicles was observed heading north on Interstate 75, as people responded to evacuation orders. Southbound lanes were congested as others sought refuge in areas like Fort Lauderdale and Miami.
In Fort Myers Beach, an evacuation order prompted a near-empty scene by Monday afternoon. This community, which suffered a devastating storm surge two years ago, is now focusing on safeguarding property and belongings. Residents are determined not to repeat the mistakes of past storms.
The lingering destruction from Hurricane Ian is evident, with homes in various stages of reconstruction. Streets are lined with construction supplies that could become dangerous projectiles in the event of a storm surge.
Business owners are scrambling to prepare for the impending storm. A local store owner reported relocating inventory to ensure protection against water damage. “We’ll rebuild, but it is going to be bad,” he lamented.
Another resident expressed frustration as they secured their home against Milton’s approach. Their property, previously damaged by past storms, serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against nature’s fury.
As residents brace for the approaching hurricane, many share a common sentiment: the last few years have been challenging, and the specter of another storm complicates their hopes for recovery.
