As Hurricane Milton barrels towards Florida, officials are urging residents to evacuate as soon as possible to ensure their safety. However, some individuals, like Bridgit Stone-Budd from Sanibel Island, have chosen to stay despite the looming danger.
Stone-Budd, who experienced the devastation of Hurricane Ian in the past, cited the inability to return home as her primary reason for staying put. She expressed concerns about the structural integrity of her raised home, acknowledging that even though it had withstood previous storms, there are no guarantees when facing the wrath of a powerful hurricane.
The city of Sanibel has issued a mandatory evacuation order, leaving those who opt to remain behind subject to a 24-hour curfew. While Stone-Budd feels relatively secure in her stilted home, she remains wary of potential risks, particularly if the house were to lose a support pylon.
With time running out before Hurricane Milton makes landfall, residents in Florida are faced with a critical decision that could impact their safety and well-being. It is crucial for individuals to heed the warnings of officials and prioritize their own safety by evacuating to designated shelters or safe locations.