Hurricane Milton Threatens Millions in Florida

As Hurricane Milton nears landfall in Florida, nearly 20 million people are in its path, with the Tampa Bay area already feeling significant impacts. Residents have begun evacuating due to anticipated storm surges, rainfall, and wind speeds increasing as the hurricane intensifies. Meteorologist Chad Myers highlights the potential for a Category 3 hurricane, with destructive winds likely reaching up to 150 mph. Tampa's Mayor Jane Castor has issued a stark warning for those in evacuation zones, emphasizing the serious risk to life. With Hurricane Helene's recent impact, many communities are still recovering and now face the threat of Milton's even stronger storm surge, which could reach up to 15 feet. Local officials and hospitals are preparing for significant impacts on infrastructure as they rally efforts to clear debris before Milton makes landfall, which is expected within the next 36 hours. Residents are being urged to evacuate promptly as the storm's path changes constantly, posing risks of flooding and power outages across a wide area.