Residents of Sunset Beach, Florida, were able to access their homes by car on Monday, following the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, only to evacuate again as Hurricane Milton approaches. Sunset Beach, located on Treasure Island, a barrier island west of St. Petersburg in the Gulf of Mexico, had been accessible only by foot due to the extensive sand and debris left by Helene.
Authorities reopened the roads to vehicle traffic on Monday to allow residents to gather their belongings and reinforce their homes in preparation for the impending arrival of Hurricane Milton. The city of Treasure Island issued a warning, emphasizing the severity of the approaching storm and urging residents to take necessary precautions.
Hurricane Milton is anticipated to bring higher storm surges, extreme winds, and flooding, posing a significant threat to the area. In response to the impending danger, access to the islands will be restricted starting at 7 p.m. on Tuesday. Once residents evacuate, they will not be permitted to return until it is deemed safe to do so.
One resident, Sarah Lee McKinney, expressed her concerns and urged others not to underestimate the potential impact of the storm. McKinney emphasized the importance of prioritizing safety over material possessions, highlighting the need for residents to evacuate and seek shelter.
As the community braces for the impact of Hurricane Milton, residents are urged to heed evacuation orders and prioritize their safety. The city of Treasure Island continues to monitor the situation closely and provide updates to ensure the well-being of all residents in the affected areas.
