Hurricane Milton approaches the coastline, bringing stormy weather.
Hillsborough County officials warn residents to prepare for the approaching Hurricane Milton, as the local state of emergency is extended until December 29. With maximum winds of 80 mph predicted to strengthen, evacuations are deemed likely, especially in vulnerable areas. Authorities urge residents to stay informed through official channels. Affected counties are advised to plan accordingly, as considerable rainfall and storm surges are anticipated. The National Guard is ready to assist, and FEMA is mobilizing resources for effective response and recovery efforts.
Residents of Hillsborough County are on high alert as the area prepares for the impending arrival of Hurricane Milton. County Administrator Bonnie Wise has officially extended the Local State of Emergency through December 29, ensuring that all hands are on deck as preparations ramp up for the storm.
For those looking to stay updated on storm-related information, you can head over to HCFL.gov/StaySafe for the latest developments. If you’re not able to access the internet, there’s no need to worry! You can always reach out to the County’s storm information helpline at (833) HC STORM or (833) 427-8676 to get the information you need.
As of Sunday, October 6, 2024, Hurricane Milton was approximately 815 miles west-southwest of Tampa with maximum sustained winds clocking in at an impressive 80 mph. Meteorologists predict that Milton will strengthen and could potentially hit the Tampa Bay area as a major hurricane come Wednesday. Residents across Florida need to heed warnings from officials, as Governor Ron DeSantis has indicated that the state could face serious impacts from the storm.
In nearby Pinellas County, local officials have taken measures by issuing voluntary evacuation orders for residents living along barrier island beaches and in mobile home parks. It is anticipated that mandatory evacuation orders will soon follow those who may need to leave their homes. These precautionary measures are critical as everyone prepares for potential flooding and storm surges.
The state of emergency that Governor DeSantis expanded affects 51 out of 67 counties, which translates to more than 90% of Florida’s population feeling the impact of Hurricane Milton. If you live in a home built after the 2004 building code changes and you aren’t located in an evacuation zone, you may not need to evacuate. It’s always best to assess your personal situation and take appropriate actions to ensure your safety.
Adding to the list of preparations, all classes and activities in Pinellas County have been cancelled from Monday through Wednesday. For those concerned about their vehicles, city garages in Tampa will be opened free of charge, providing a safe haven for cars and trucks as floodwaters loom on the horizon.
In an effort to effectively respond to the storm, up to 4,000 National Guard troops are set to be deployed for debris removal efforts following the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. Additionally, state crews previously in North Carolina for recovery will be recalled to assist with the preparations in Florida.
One key location for operational support during this time will be at Tropicana Field, where the Florida Department of Emergency Management is setting up a base camp. FEMA has also begun staging essential resources as they mobilize significant aid, especially following the impacts of Hurricane Helene, which incurred federal disaster assistance exceeding $137 million.
As for the forecast, it’s expected that some areas in Florida could see up to a foot of rain, further exacerbating risks of power outages and flooding. The situation is dire, and evacuation plans are underway, which include resources for emergency fuel and electric vehicle charging stations along routes.
While Hurricane Milton takes center stage, it’s worth mentioning that Hurricane Kirk has diminished to a Category 2 hurricane, and Hurricane Leslie moves over the Atlantic without posing a threat to land at this time. Finally, as the Tampa Bay Rays navigate their own plans amid these weather events, it adds another layer to the evolving situation in the region.
Stay safe and stay aware, Hillsborough County, as we navigate the challenges that come with Hurricane Milton!
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