The storm is now a Category 5 and is expected to bring dangerous conditions to Florida, including life-threatening storm surges, strong winds, and heavy rain.
Hurricane Milton has strengthened, prompting the state weather bureau and government officials to urge Florida residents to prepare and evacuate if necessary.
The latest advisory, issued on October 9 by the National Weather Service’s National Hurricane Center (NHC), signals an escalating threat as the storm approaches the Gulf Coast.
According to the NHC, Milton is expected to make landfall late in the evening as a dangerous major hurricane. Weather conditions are likely to start deteriorating in the afternoon, with impacts worsening as the storm approaches.
DeSantis also identified additional areas at risk, including Coastal Franklin, Dry Tortugas, Coastal Jefferson, Coastal Wakulla, and Inland Jefferson, to ensure comprehensive preparedness. This action followed his issuance of Executive Order 24-215 on October 6, which amended the previous emergency declaration (Executive Order 24-214) for Tropical Storm Milton.
In addition to establishing evacuation zones and issuing safety guidance, authorities urge residents to follow necessary measures to protect their lives and property.
Staying informed is key. With the risks in mind, taking proactive steps now can help you stay safe during the storm. Here’s how to protect yourself.
Prepare
Understand your hurricane risk. This includes the potential for heavy rain, strong winds, flooding, and tornadoes that can occur far inland from where a storm makes landfall.
Be familiar with the hurricane plans in place, including considerations for those at work, children’s daycare, and other frequently visited locations like grocery stores.
Stock up on essential supplies. Recommended items include medications, disinfectants, and pet supplies, which should be kept in a go-bag or car trunk. Access to these supplies may be limited for days or even weeks following a hurricane.
Make sure to clear drains and gutters, secure outdoor furniture, and consider installing hurricane shutters. It’s also important to charge cell phones and invest in backup power sources for electronics when a hurricane is forecasted.
Stay Informed
It’s crucial to know if you live in an evacuation zone, listed at the end of this article, as you may need to evacuate quickly during a hurricane. Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes, practice evacuating with your household and pets, and decide where you will stay.
Follow the guidance of local emergency managers, who work with state, local, tribal, and territorial agencies. They will provide up-to-date recommendations based on the specific threats to your community and the necessary safety measures.
Check On Your Neighbors
Reach out to your neighbors, especially seniors or those who may require extra assistance, to ensure they have adequate hurricane plans in place. Offer your help in securing their preparations and provide support wherever needed.
Stay Out of Flood Water
Avoid entering floodwaters, as even six inches of fast-moving water can knock you off your feet. Prioritize your safety and steer clear of all flooded areas.
Turn Around and Do Not Drown
Be aware that just one foot of moving water can easily sweep away a vehicle. Stay vigilant and never drive through flooded areas. Avoid walking, swimming, or driving in floodwaters at all times. If you encounter flooding, turn around and find an alternate route.
Take Care of Your Mental Health
Lastly, prioritize your mental health during and after a hurricane. It’s important to acknowledge any feelings of anxiety or stress and seek support when needed. Reach out to friends, family, or mental health professionals to discuss your concerns and explore coping strategies.
Evacuate: Know Your Zone and Stay Safe
Tampa Mayor Jane Castor earlier stressed the importance of heeding evacuation zones as Hurricane Milton, forecasted to strengthen and pose deadly threats, approaches Florida’s west coast. She warned residents, “I can say without any dramatization whatsoever: If you choose to stay in one of those evacuation areas, you’re gonna die.”
Tampa, located in Hillsborough County, has issued mandatory evacuation orders for Zones A and B, as well as for residents in mobile homes. The city is urging those in the affected areas to evacuate immediately, warning that Hurricane Milton poses a “literally catastrophic” threat.
The following counties have issued evacuation orders.
Charlotte County: Mandatory evacuation for residents in Red Zone-A, Orange Zone-B, and those living in mobile and manufactured homes.
Citrus County: Mandatory evacuation beginning October 8, for all residents living in campers, tents, mobile homes, manufactured homes, or any structures unable to withstand sustained winds of up to 110 MPH.
Clay County: No mandatory evacuation orders, but residents in low-lying or flood-prone areas, especially along Black Creek or the St. Johns River, are strongly encouraged to consider relocating for safety.
Glades County: Voluntary evacuation for mobile homes, RV parks, and low-lying areas, which started on October Hillsborough County: Mandatory evacuation for Evacuation Zones A and B, including all mobile homes and manufactured housing throughout the county, beginning October 7.
Hernando County: Mandatory evacuation orders for all areas west of US 19, including evacuation zones A, B, and C, from October 8. This includes all residents in coastal and low-lying areas, as well as those in manufactured homes countywide.
Lee County: Mandatory evacuation orders for Zones A and B, urging residents to finalize emergency plans and evacuate as soon as possible, aiming to be in a safe location by the evening of October 8.
Marion County: Recommended evacuation for residents living in mobile homes, RVs, modular-type homes, and site-built homes constructed before 1994 due to the hurricane’s projected path, as per Marion County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Management.
Okeechobe County: Voluntary evacuation for all low-lying areas and mobile homes starting October 8.
Volusia County: Mandatory evacuation order taking effect on October 9, for all areas east of the Intracoastal Waterway, including residents in manufactured and mobile homes, low-lying and flood-prone areas, as well as campsites and RV parks.
Sarasota County: Residents in Sarasota County living in Level A or near Level A, as well as those in manufactured home communities or mobile/boat homes, are advised to implement their evacuation plans immediately, whether that involves staying with friends or leaving the area.
Putnam County: Recommended evacuation for Zones F and A due to concerns regarding high river levels.