Hurricane Milton: Live Updates on Florida Evacuations
Hurricane Milton is bearing down on Florida, prompting mandatory evacuations for coastal communities and sending residents scrambling for safety. Here's the latest on the storm's track, potential impact, and evacuation orders.
Hurricane Milton: A Powerful Threat
Hurricane Milton, now a Category 3 storm, is projected to make landfall on Florida's west coast within the next 24 hours. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued hurricane warnings for a vast swathe of the state, stretching from Naples to Pensacola.
The storm's powerful winds, heavy rainfall, and potential storm surge pose a serious threat to life and property. Authorities have urged residents in vulnerable areas to heed evacuation orders and seek shelter.
Live Updates on Evacuations:
- Mandatory Evacuations: As of 6 pm EST, mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for several coastal counties, including:
- Lee County: Evacuation orders are in effect for Zone A and Zone B.
- Collier County: Mandatory evacuations for all residents in Zones A and B.
- Charlotte County: Mandatory evacuation orders for Zones A, B, and C.
- Sarasota County: Mandatory evacuations for all residents in Zone A and some areas in Zone B.
- Shelter Openings: Numerous emergency shelters have been opened throughout the affected counties. You can find a complete list of open shelters on your county's emergency management website.
- Traffic: Heavy traffic is expected as residents evacuate the affected areas. Authorities urge drivers to use caution and be prepared for delays.
Prepare for the Storm
It's critical to take the following steps to prepare for the storm:
- Stay Informed: Monitor local news and weather updates from the NHC.
- Secure Your Home: Bring in loose objects from your yard, secure windows and doors, and fill your bathtub with water for backup.
- Gather Emergency Supplies: Stock up on food, water, medication, batteries, flashlights, and a first-aid kit.
- Plan Your Evacuation Route: Know where you'll go if an evacuation order is issued and have a plan to evacuate safely.
Follow the Official Guidelines
Listen to and follow the instructions of local authorities and emergency personnel. They are working tirelessly to ensure the safety of all residents.
This article will be updated as new information becomes available. We will continue to track the storm's path and provide the latest on evacuations and the potential impact of Hurricane Milton.
