Hurricane Milton, approaching Florida’s west coast, has led to the evacuation of nearly 10,000 people in Sarasota County, located south of Tampa. Local authorities reported that this is the largest number ever recorded during an evacuation in the region, along with 1,700 pets that were also moved to evacuation centers.
The county’s 311 emergency response system received over 10,000 calls since the evacuations began last Sunday until today. The local official warned that the window for safe evacuations has closed, advising those still at home to shelter in place and avoid going out.
The county, which is directly in the path of Hurricane Milton, is expected to suffer a significant impact in the coming hours, according to forecasts from the National Hurricane Center.
Emergency Responders Prepare for Hurricane
In an interview with NBC News, Sarasota County Sheriff Kurt Hoffman explained how the city is preparing for the impact. He detailed the plans for mobilizing first responders, which include coordinated efforts to ensure that people in high-risk areas are in safe locations. According to Hoffman, all emergency teams are on high alert to respond to any critical situations during the hurricane’s passage.
Additionally, the county is closely monitoring the flood map, highlighting river and tidal gauges that are near critical levels. This tracking is essential to predict areas that could face severe flooding caused by storm surges.
Curfew and Alert in Martin County
On the opposite side of Florida, in Martin County, Sheriff William Snyder has implemented a curfew from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. after the area was hit by tornadoes spawned by the hurricane’s outer bands. In a Facebook statement, Snyder emphasized that the measure is aimed at ensuring public safety amid extreme weather conditions, which are expected to worsen overnight.
Martin County is located on Florida’s east coast, directly opposite the point where Hurricane Milton is expected to make landfall. The area has already sustained significant damage, and the forecast of more severe storms prompted authorities to take preventive actions.
Residents Share Their Experiences
Venice resident Heather Morgan described her experience of sheltering during the hurricane’s approach. She reported that the doors of her home were rattling due to the strong winds. Morgan, who survived Hurricane Helene previously, said she is “hoping for the best” as Hurricane Milton swiftly approaches her town.
This sense of uncertainty and fear is shared by many residents in the region, who are preparing for one of the most devastating weather events in recent years.
Hurricane Milton Nearing Landfall
As of 8 p.m. this evening, the National Hurricane Center reported that the storm’s center was just 20 miles west-southwest of Sarasota, moving at a speed of 15 mph towards the coast. The effects of the hurricane have already begun to be felt in several parts of Florida, with strong winds, torrential rain, and localized flooding.
Storms, flooding, and life-threatening winds are already underway and are expected to intensify in the coming hours.
Imminent Landfall and Impact
The Category 3 Hurricane Milton poses a potentially catastrophic threat. One of the greatest dangers associated with the storm is the storm surge, which could reach up to 13 feet in some coastal areas, causing devastating floods. Large portions of Florida’s coastline are expected to be submerged, leading to widespread destruction of infrastructure and vegetation.
Authorities remain on high alert as Hurricane Milton’s landfall is imminent. Residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to stay in shelters and strictly follow official recommendations.