Hurricane Milton: Florida Braces for Impact
Florida Prepares for Hurricane Milton as Category 3 Storm Approaches
Residents Urged to Evacuate as Storm Strengthens
Hurricane Milton has strengthened to a Category 3 storm and is expected to make landfall on the Florida coast within the next 24 hours. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued hurricane warnings for much of the Florida peninsula, including the cities of Tampa, Orlando, and Miami. Residents in these areas are being urged to evacuate to higher ground as the storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surge.
The NHC is forecasting that Hurricane Milton will make landfall near the city of Tampa late tonight or early tomorrow morning. The storm is expected to bring sustained winds of up to 120 miles per hour, with gusts of up to 150 miles per hour. The NHC is also warning of the potential for storm surge of up to 10 feet along the coast. This could lead to significant flooding and damage to coastal communities.
Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for Florida and has activated the Florida National Guard. The governor is urging residents to take the storm seriously and to follow the instructions of local officials. He has also ordered the evacuation of all mobile homes and RVs from the affected areas.
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is reporting that several major highways in the state are closed due to the storm. The FDOT is urging drivers to avoid unnecessary travel and to stay off the roads if possible.
Residents in the affected areas are being encouraged to stock up on food, water, and other essential supplies. They should also have a plan in place in case they need to evacuate.
Hurricane Milton is the first major hurricane to threaten Florida since Hurricane Michael in 2018. Michael was a Category 5 storm that caused widespread damage and power outages in the state.
Residents in Florida are being urged to stay informed about the storm and to follow the instructions of local officials. They should also be prepared to evacuate if necessary.
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