Hurricane Milton has escalated into a formidable Category 5 storm with winds of 175 mph, threatening to strike Florida’s Gulf Coast just as residents are attempting to recover from the damage inflicted by Hurricane Helene. This convergence of disasters raises alarm bells for communities still coping with the aftermath of the previous storm.
In response, Gov. Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency and called for mass evacuations, marking one of the largest such efforts in nearly a decade. “This is going to be bad,” said Sheriff Bob Gualtieri, stressing the urgency of the situation as the storm’s arrival looms.
The National Hurricane Center warns that Milton will bring life-threatening conditions, including storm surges potentially exceeding eight feet. With debris from Helene still littering many areas, the risks of additional damage during Milton’s landfall are significantly heightened.
DeSantis has mandated that all debris collection sites operate around the clock to facilitate cleanup efforts, indicating the necessity of removing hazards before the new storm arrives. “We need as much of this debris picked up as possible,” he stated, highlighting the urgent need for preparedness.
As Floridians brace for Milton’s impact, the combination of two major storms in quick succession underscores the challenges facing the state. Residents are urged to follow local evacuation orders and take all necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families.
