Floridians are bracing for the state’s most significant evacuation effort in years as Hurricane Milton approaches the Gulf Coast, which is still recovering from a recent historic storm.
Currently located off the Mexican coast, Hurricane Milton is projected to make its way to Florida’s west coast by midweek, posing a serious threat to life and property, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC).
The impending hurricane follows closely on the heels of Storm Helene, which was the deadliest storm on the U.S. mainland since Hurricane Katrina in 2005, resulting in at least 225 casualties and dozens still unaccounted for.
At least 14 fatalities were reported in Florida, with 51 out of 67 counties currently under emergency alerts as Hurricane Milton draws near.
Milton has rapidly intensified from a tropical storm into a category 3 hurricane, recording wind speeds of approximately 125 mph (205 km/h) as of Monday morning, according to the NHC.
Forecasts indicate that Milton may strengthen further and develop into a major hurricane before making landfall near Tampa Bay on Wednesday.
After landfall, it is predicted to track northeast across the Florida peninsula towards the Atlantic Ocean, with potential to escalate to a category 4 storm.
The NHC has issued warnings regarding damaging winds, heavy rainfall leading to flash flooding, and storm surges as water levels rise inland from the Gulf Coast.
Rainfall amounts could reach up to 15 inches (38 cm) in some areas, with coastal regions at risk of storm surges between 5 to 10 feet (1.5 to 3.5 meters).
Preparations are already in full swing, with Floridians beginning to stockpile sandbags and queuing at gas stations for supplies.
The NHC’s grave warnings have been echoed by state officials who urge caution.
Kevin Guthrie, head of Florida’s emergency management division, emphasized that residents should prepare for the “largest evacuation effort since Hurricane Irma in 2017,” which resulted in numerous fatalities.
Governor Ron DeSantis issued emergency declarations for 51 counties, stating that preparations are underway to restore power and clear roads, but residents should brace for disruptions as Milton approaches.
He advised Floridians to formulate a “preparedness plan” amid both mandatory and voluntary evacuation orders, recognizing the likelihood of major impacts.
Pinellas County, particularly affected by Storm Helene, is expected to see a significant number of evacuations.
Projected Path and Impact Timeline of Hurricane Milton
The threat of Hurricane Milton comes as the U.S. government warns that recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene could extend for years.
Numerous roads in affected regions remain closed, obstructing aid delivery to hard-hit communities.
Hurricane Helene made landfall in late September with category-four intensity, devastating infrastructure, triggering flash floods, and leaving millions without power.
Casualties were reported not only in Florida but also in Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and most severely in North Carolina.
In response, additional federal troops are being deployed to North Carolina, complementing ongoing relief efforts by government workers and the National Guard.
Federal assistance of nearly $140 million has been authorized to support recovery efforts amidst rising misinformation regarding the allocation of these funds.
