According to the U.S. National Weather Service, if Hurricane Milton stays on its current path, it will be the worst hurricane to hit the Tampa region of Florida in over 100 years.
The storm surge in the affected area is expected to reach up to 5 meters, and tropical storm-force winds are anticipated across almost all of Florida. NASA shared a video from space that shows the hurricane moving towards the U.S. coast.
It’s important to note that Milton is striking areas recently impacted by Hurricane Helene. In some places, cleanup from Helene has yet to be completed. Debris and trash still litter the streets of some towns, posing a potential hazard during the oncoming storm.
As previously reported, about 5.9 million people have been ordered to evacuate. "It’s not too late - get in your car, drive across the bridge, and find shelter," urged Belleair Beach Mayor Dave Gattis.
According to Reuters, nearly 8,000 gas stations across Florida - more than 17 percent of the state's total - have already run out of fuel. Fuel distributor Mansfield reported that tanker deliveries are no longer safe and have been halted due to the severe weather conditions. State authorities have been asked to address the issue.