As many have heard, Hurricane Milton made landfall along Florida’s coast on Oct. 9, bringing ferocious winds up to 160 mph and forecasting life-threatening storm surges over 10 feet high. Putting millions of lives and the surrounding environment at tremendous risk, the catastrophic storm has flooded some areas under several feet of water since coming ashore.
Mayor of Tampa, Jane Castor warned residents within mandatory evacuation zones, “If you choose to stay in one of the evacuation areas you’re going to die.”
The National Weather Service has also advised that Milton is progressing at a slow pace, which implies that it will linger and bring further issues such as excessively heavy precipitation and intense winds. During a recent briefing, meteorologists highlighted the gravity of the situation. More concerns revolve around the potential for disastrous flooding, the possibility of tornadoes, and the heightened risk of extended power disruptions.
“We’re facing a storm that poses a significant threat to life and is expected to stick around for several days,” the Weather Service said.
Counties like St. Augustine, Daytona Beach and more urgently warned residents to evacuate, and shelters are packed as everyone is trying to stay safe. More than half a million homes in Central Florida have lost power, and it’s going to take several days–even weeks on end–before things are up and running again.
FEMA spokesperson said, “We’ve deployed crews across the state to help with rescue operations, but we’re in this for the long haul.”
Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency, urging civilians to take this storm seriously. Federal assistance has also been approved to help those in need.
“This storm is dangerous, and we’re going to feel its effects for days,” DeSantis said.
As Milton moves inland, Central Florida is facing more trouble with ongoing floods and the potential for tornadoes. While the storm is expected to weaken over time, it will still leave a significant impact before moving into the Atlantic.