Florida Braces for Hurricane Milton: Largest Evacuation Since 2017 Looms

Florida is preparing for what could be its most extensive evacuation operation since Hurricane Irma in 2017, as Hurricane Milton gains strength over the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The storm is on a trajectory that may bring it to major population centers, including Tampa and Orlando, by Wednesday, October 9, 2024.

The National Hurricane Center reported early Monday, October 7, that Milton was moving erratically eastward through the southern Gulf of Mexico. The storm's center was located approximately 770 miles west-southwest of Tampa, with maximum sustained winds of 90 mph. Forecasters expect Milton to intensify into a major hurricane as it approaches the Florida coast.

The potential impact of Hurricane Milton is particularly concerning given that Florida is still recovering from the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. The death toll from Helene has risen to at least 230 people, with significant damage extending from Florida into the Appalachian Mountains.

Governor Ron DeSantis has expanded the state of emergency declaration to 51 counties, urging residents to prepare for power outages and disruptions. "I don't think there's any scenario where we don't have major impacts at this point," DeSantis stated on Sunday.

Florida's emergency management teams are implementing lessons learned from previous storms, including Hurricane Irma. Kevin Guthrie, executive director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, announced that the state is staging emergency fuel for gas vehicles and charging stations for electric vehicles along evacuation routes.

"You have time to prepare — all day today, all day Monday, probably all day Tuesday to be sure your hurricane preparedness plan is in place. If you're on that west coast of Florida, barrier islands, just assume you'll be asked to leave."

The St. Petersburg-Tampa Bay area, which is still cleaning up extensive damage from Hurricane Helene, is particularly vulnerable to Milton's potential impact. The region's geography, with its shallow waters and barrier islands, makes it susceptible to severe storm surge, which is often the deadliest aspect of a hurricane.

As Hurricane Milton approaches, it's worth noting that this is the first time the Atlantic has had three simultaneous hurricanes after September, according to Colorado State University hurricane scientist Phil Klotzbach. This unusual occurrence highlights the increasing intensity and frequency of Atlantic hurricanes, which some scientists attribute to climate change.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is already preparing for Milton's impact, even as it continues to respond to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell defended the agency's response to Helene's destruction, addressing misinformation that has created fear and mistrust among affected communities.

As Florida braces for Hurricane Milton, residents are urged to stay informed, follow evacuation orders, and have emergency plans in place. The state's experience with past hurricanes, including the devastating Hurricane Andrew in 1992, has led to improved building codes and emergency management practices. However, the potential for significant damage and disruption remains high as Milton approaches the storm-weary Sunshine State.