What's happened
Hurricane Milton, a Category 4 storm, is expected to cause significant destruction in Florida, particularly in the Tampa Bay area. With millions under evacuation orders, many residents face challenges in leaving due to gas shortages and financial constraints. The storm follows closely on the heels of Hurricane Helene, exacerbating the situation for emergency services.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to the New York Times, officials have warned that Milton is expected to be one of the most destructive hurricanes on record for west-central Florida, with up to 15 feet of storm surge and winds reaching 155 mph. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis emphasized the urgency of evacuations, stating, "If we knew exactly where it’s going to hit, we probably would evacuate fewer people." Meanwhile, Business Insider UK highlighted the emotional toll on residents, with one evacuee noting, "The whole journey felt like an emergency." The Independent reported on the struggles of families unable to afford evacuation, illustrating the financial burden many face during such crises. These contrasting perspectives underscore the multifaceted challenges posed by Hurricane Milton.
How we got here
Hurricane Milton is the latest in a series of severe storms impacting Florida, following Hurricane Helene, which caused over 230 fatalities. The state has been on high alert due to the frequency and intensity of recent hurricanes, leading to widespread evacuation orders.
Common question
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What caused the mass evacuations in Florida due to Hurricane Milton?
Hurricane Milton, a powerful Category 4 storm, is forcing millions of residents in Florida to evacuate. This situation raises numerous questions about the storm's impact, the evacuation process, and how it compares to past events like Hurricane Irma. Here are some key questions and answers to help you understand the current situation.
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What Areas Are Being Evacuated Due to Hurricane Milton?
Hurricane Milton, a powerful Category 4 storm, is causing widespread evacuations across Florida's Central Gulf Coast. As millions flee the impending danger, many are left wondering about the specific areas affected, how to prepare, and what to expect from this storm compared to recent hurricanes. Here are some common questions and answers regarding Hurricane Milton and its impact.
More on these topics
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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.
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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.
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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...