What's happened
As Hurricane Milton approaches Florida's Gulf Coast, gas shortages have intensified, complicating evacuation efforts. With over 60% of gas stations in the Tampa area running dry, residents face long lines and congestion. Governor Ron DeSantis assures that fuel supplies are on the way, but many remain anxious about their ability to evacuate safely.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to Mike Bedigan from The Independent, residents in areas like Pinellas County are facing significant challenges as they attempt to evacuate, with up to 60% of gas stations running out of fuel. Bedigan notes that many residents have shared their frustrations on social media, highlighting the dire situation. Meanwhile, Kelsey Vlamis from Business Insider UK emphasizes that Florida's fuel distribution is heavily reliant on Port Tampa Bay, making the state vulnerable to supply issues. Governor Ron DeSantis has stated that while there is no fuel shortage, the demand has outpaced supply, leading to long lines at gas stations. This sentiment is echoed by experts who warn that lasting damage to the port could exacerbate the situation for weeks or months after the hurricane.
How we got here
Hurricane Milton is expected to make landfall on October 9, 2024, following the devastation of Hurricane Helene, which prompted authorities to take proactive evacuation measures. Gas shortages have emerged as a critical issue as residents attempt to flee the storm's path.
Common question
-
What Areas Are Most Affected by Gas Shortages Due to Hurricane Milton?
As Hurricane Milton approaches Florida, gas shortages are becoming a pressing issue for residents. With over 40% of gas stations in the Tampa area reporting fuel shortages, many are left wondering how to navigate the crisis. This page addresses key questions about the impact of the hurricane on fuel availability, government responses, and evacuation procedures.
-
What are the Economic Impacts of Hurricanes Like Milton?
Hurricanes can have devastating effects on local economies, especially as they approach landfall. With Hurricane Milton making headlines, many are curious about how such weather events impact communities economically. This page explores the various economic implications of hurricanes, including gas shortages, evacuation costs, and long-term recovery challenges.
More on these topics
-
Ronald "Ron" Dion DeSantis is an American attorney, naval officer, and Republican politician. He has served as the 46th governor of Florida since 2019, and he represented Florida's 6th congressional district in Congress from 2013 to 2018.
-
Florida is a state located in the southeastern region of the United States. With a population of over 21 million, Florida is the third-most populous and the 22nd-most extensive of the 50 United States.
-
Hurricane Milton is an active tropical cyclone in the Gulf of Mexico currently approaching the Yucatán Peninsula. The thirteenth named storm, ninth hurricane, and fourth major hurricane of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, Milton formed from a long...