Governor Ron DeSantis held a press briefing at the state’s Emergency Operations Center, urging Floridians to take Tropical Storm Milton seriously as it approaches Florida’s west coast. The storm is expected to make landfall on Wednesday at around 5 PM, though DeSantis emphasized there is still uncertainty about its exact timing and path.
“I’d urge Floridians to take this storm very seriously,” DeSantis warned, adding that while the current track has Milton making landfall at Madeira Beach in Pinellas County, all residents on the west coast of Florida and the peninsula should prepare for significant impacts, including storm surge.
Read: Tropical Storm Milton’s Unusual Path: A Slow-Moving Threat For Florida
The governor explained that Milton could potentially become a major hurricane by midweek, with “really significant storm surge” posing a particular threat. In response, DeSantis has expanded the state of emergency to 51 counties, allowing state officials to act swiftly and bypass bureaucracy to ensure resources are available ahead of the storm’s impact.
“We are at a Level 1 here at the Emergency Operations Center,” DeSantis said, underscoring the state’s preparation efforts. He reminded Floridians of the damage caused by Hurricane Helene and highlighted the urgency of clearing debris from that storm, especially with Milton on the way. “Debris creates a hazard if we get hit by another storm in the same area.”
The governor has directed that all disaster debris management sites and landfills remain open 24 hours a day to expedite cleanup before Milton’s arrival. He also urged local officials to allow evacuated residents to return to their homes as soon as it is safe, stating that people may be less likely to evacuate if they believe they’ll be kept out of their homes for an extended period.
The storm, located 860 miles west-southwest of Tampa, has sustained winds of 60 mph but is expected to intensify. “Milton is going to start moving towards Florida soon,” DeSantis said. “We expect it to become a hurricane either today or tomorrow.”
To assist in preparation, the Florida Division of Emergency Management has sent high-water rescue vehicles to Hillsborough and Pinellas counties, deployed flood protection systems, and activated the Florida National Guard, Florida State Guard, and the Florida Highway Patrol to aid in debris removal and provide logistical support.
DeSantis also warned of potential widespread power outages, reminding residents to prepare. “You’re likely to have greater outages for this even if it doesn’t end up reaching major status,” DeSantis said, noting that resources are being marshaled to respond quickly.
Floridians were advised to have their hurricane preparedness plans in place, stock up on gas and non-perishable food, and clear any loose objects from their yards. DeSantis emphasized that evacuation orders will be issued, and residents in vulnerable areas, particularly on the barrier islands, should expect to be asked to evacuate.
“The bottom line is, you’re potentially looking at storm surge more significant than what we saw with Hurricane Helene,” DeSantis said, urging residents to stay informed and prepared.
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