As Hurricane Milton approaches Florida, emergency management officials are preparing for potential evacuations on a scale not seen since Hurricane Irma in 2017. During Irma, evacuations were ordered for 54 out of the state's 67 counties, leading to traffic congestion on interstates and fuel shortages at gas stations as millions fled the storm's path.
For Hurricane Milton, only four counties have issued evacuation orders so far, affecting approximately 2.1 million residents. Governor Ron DeSantis has indicated that more evacuation orders may be forthcoming, particularly for coastal and flood-prone areas.
DeSantis emphasized that evacuees do not need to travel long distances to find safety. He advised residents in at-risk areas to seek refuge in nearby locations that are not susceptible to storm surge, such as friends' homes, hotels, or shelters within their own counties.
It is crucial for residents to heed evacuation orders and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during the storm. By following official guidance and seeking shelter in secure locations, individuals can minimize the risks associated with severe weather events like Hurricane Milton.
