Hurricane Milton Threatens Florida, Promising Major Evacuation, Potential Catastrophe

Florida is bracing for its largest evacuation in seven years as Hurricane Milton strengthens over warm waters and heads toward major population centers including Tampa and Orlando, The Associated Press reports.

The storm, currently a Category 1 hurricane, is forecast to intensify rapidly, possibly becoming a major hurricane before making landfall on Wednesday in the Tampa Bay area.

The potential impact of Milton echoes the devastating Hurricane Irma in 2017, which prompted an evacuation of 7 million Floridians, causing massive traffic jams, fuel shortages, and widespread frustration. This time, however, officials are drawing on lessons learned from past storms and are preparing for potential evacuations with greater preparedness.

Florida’s Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) is staging emergency fuel supplies along evacuation routes, including charging stations for electric vehicles. “We are learning from previous storms and ensuring we have the resources in place to support the public during this emergency,” said Kevin Guthrie, executive director of FDEM.

Governor Ron DeSantis, while acknowledging the uncertainty in the storm’s path, has emphasized the state’s readiness for a major hurricane event.

Hurricane Milton’s arrival comes on the heels of Hurricane Helene, which devastated parts of the Southeast, causing catastrophic damage and leaving a death toll of at least 230 people. With Milton achieving hurricane status, this is the first time the Atlantic has had three simultaneous hurricanes after September, according to Colorado State University hurricane scientist Phil Klotzbach.

As Milton approaches, precautionary measures are being taken across the state. Schools in St. Petersburg’s Pinellas County have preemptively closed from Monday through Wednesday. Tampa city garages are offering free parking for residents seeking to protect their vehicles from potential floodwaters.

With the hurricane gaining strength, Florida is mobilizing resources and preparing for a major evacuation, reminding residents of the need to take precautions, secure their property, and follow official guidance as the storm approaches.