USA: Hurricane Milton Approaches Florida

• As Hurricane Milton approaches Florida, a state of emergency has been declared in 51 counties, with evacuation orders issued by multiple county governments in the central-western part of the state.
• The hurricane is expected to strengthen further and make landfall, potentially causing severe wind and water damage, particularly in the western coastal areas of Florida.
• In preparation for emergencies, residents are urged to stock up on water and food supplies, pay attention to instructions and orders from authorities, and evacuate to safe locations if necessary.

1. On October 5, Tropical Storm Milton formed in the Gulf of Mexico and has since developed into a Category 4 major hurricane as of October 7, moving eastward toward the western coast of Florida. It is expected to strengthen further and make landfall in central-western Florida on October 9, bringing the risk of storm surge, flooding, and severe wind damage. In particular, following Hurricane Helene, river levels in central-western Florida are already high, and debris removal operations are ongoing, raising the risk of further damage.
2. By October 6, Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency in 51 counties, excluding the northwestern part of Florida. Additionally, several county governments in central-western Florida, where the hurricane is expected to pass, have issued evacuation orders to residents, and more evacuation orders may follow.
3. Those residing or planning to stay in areas predicted to be on the hurricane’s path should check for the latest evacuation instructions and orders from the Florida state and county governments. They should prepare for possible power outages, water supply interruptions, road closures, and downed trees, including stockpiling water and food, refueling vehicles, and considering evacuation to locations outside the hurricane’s path to ensure their safety.
4. If a major hurricane makes landfall in Florida, follow-up checks via email or phone may occur after the hurricane passes, and cooperation would be appreciated.