Hurricane Milton Threatens Florida Coast
Millions of Florida residents are facing a dire situation as Hurricane Milton approaches the west coast of the state, with potential landfall expected late Wednesday night or early Thursday morning. With President Joe Biden warning that this storm could be the worst natural disaster to hit Florida in a century, it is crucial for residents to take the necessary precautions and evacuate as soon as possible.
Hurricane Details
- Hurricane Milton weakened slightly to a Category 4 storm over the Gulf of Mexico, but it still boasts winds of over 150 mph (240 kph).
- The storm is projected to hit the Florida coast as a Category 4 hurricane, with sustained wind speeds of 130 mph.
- The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued warnings of record-breaking storm surge heights, with levels predicted to reach 12-15 feet (3.6-4.5 meters) from the Tampa Bay area southward.
Urgent Evacuation Orders
President Biden emphasized the urgency of the situation, calling it a "matter of life and death" and urging citizens to evacuate immediately. The entire peninsula portion of Florida is under some form of watch or warning, highlighting the severity of the impending storm.
Preparations and Response
- Airlines have added extra flights out of major cities like Tampa, Orlando, Fort Myers, and Sarasota to facilitate evacuations.
- Local residents have been boarding up their homes and fleeing the area, as highways become congested with traffic and gas stations run out of fuel.
- The storm’s vast size was even visible from space, underscoring the magnitude of the approaching disaster.
Impact on Mexico
Storm Grazes Yucatan Coast
While passing just offshore of the Yucatan coast in Mexico, Hurricane Milton caused minor damage. Reports indicate that power lines, light poles, and trees were knocked down near the coast, with some small thatched-roof structures destroyed. Fortunately, there were no injuries or fatalities reported.
Yucatan Governor Joaquin Diaz has assured residents that surveys will be conducted to assess the damage and provide necessary repairs to support those affected.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hurricane Milton poses a significant threat to Florida residents, with the potential for catastrophic damage and loss of life. It is imperative for individuals in the affected areas to heed evacuation orders and seek shelter in safer locations. The government’s swift response and ongoing preparations are crucial in mitigating the impact of this impending disaster.
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