Hurricane Milton Continues to Gather Strength

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Hurricane Milton Continues to Gather Strength
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Hurricane Milton Continues to Gather Strength

Florida’s Gulf Coast is bracing for the arrival of Hurricane Milton, now a Category 5 storm expected to hit the Tampa Bay region on Wednesday. Residents are still recovering from Hurricane Helene, leaving heaps of debris that could become dangerous projectiles in Milton’s strong winds. The AP reported that evacuations have been ordered in vulnerable areas, and authorities are racing to clear remaining storm debris. Governor Ron DeSantis warned that while Milton may weaken slightly before landfall, it will still cause major damage. A storm surge of 8 to 12 feet is expected for Tampa Bay. The Gulf of Mexico’s unusually warm waters fueled Milton’s rapid intensification. President Biden approved emergency aid and federal workers are mobilizing to the area. Airports, schools, and highways are being closed, as residents evacuate or brace for impact.

The AP noted:

It has been two decades since so many storms crisscrossed Florida in such a short period of time. In 2004, an unprecedented five storms struck Florida within six weeks, including three hurricanes that pummeled central Florida.

Other parts of Florida’s Gulf Coast are still recovering from storms. The Fort Myers area in southwest Florida is still rebuilding from Hurricane Ian, which caused $112 billion in damage in 2022. Three hurricanes have thrashed Florida’s Big Bend region in just 13 months, including Helene.

Just 100 feet from the water on Fort Myers Beach, Don Girard was preparing his three-story home for Milton. The home got flooded by Helene two weeks ago and by Debby in August. Two years ago, Hurricane Ian sent waves crashing into the second floor.

“It’s been difficult. I’m not going to lie to you,” Girard said. “The last couple years have been pretty bad.”

RELATED:

Mayorkas says FEMA has no more disaster funds, but IG report says agency is sitting on billions (Fox News)

Ron DeSantis Responds Accordingly After Reporter Plays Politics During Hurricane Milton Briefing (Red State)