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Florida Declares State of Emergency as Hurricane Milton Threatens Gulf Coast

Florida Declares State of Emergency as Hurricane Milton Threatens Gulf Coast

A state of emergency has been declared across parts of Florida as Hurricane Milton approaches, threatening to bring dangerous conditions to the already-devastated Gulf Coast. The National Hurricane Center confirmed on Sunday that Milton, currently located off the coast of Mexico, had intensified into a Category 1 hurricane, with potential “life-threatening hazards” predicted for Florida’s west coast.

Hurricane Milton

Hurricane Milton Follows Deadly Storm Helene

This declaration comes just 10 days after Storm Helene, the deadliest mainland storm since Hurricane Katrina in 2005, tore through the southeastern United States. Helene left a trail of destruction, killing at least 225 people and leaving hundreds more missing. Florida was among the hardest-hit states, with at least 14 fatalities.

In response to Hurricane Milton, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued an emergency warning for 35 counties. Preparations are underway to restore power and clear roadways ahead of the storm’s expected arrival later this week.

Hurricane Milton’s Growing Strength

As of Sunday, Hurricane Milton had maximum sustained winds of 80 mph (130 km/h) and was forecasted to strengthen. The National Hurricane Center warned that there is “increasing confidence” that Milton will bring “life-threatening hazards” to parts of Florida’s west coast by midweek. Heavy rainfall and strong winds are expected to intensify the situation.

Rainfall and Flooding Concerns

Rainfall totals are predicted to range between 5-8 inches (127-203 mm) across the Florida Peninsula and the Florida Keys, with some areas potentially receiving up to 12 inches (304 mm). This significant amount of rain could lead to flash flooding and minor-to-moderate river flooding along the west coast, according to meteorologists.

Helene’s Aftermath and the Long Road to Recovery

The threat from Hurricane Milton comes as recovery efforts from Storm Helene continue. Experts warn that clean-up operations could take years. Helene, which made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane, caused widespread destruction, including flash floods, power outages, and structural damage across multiple states. Though North Carolina experienced the highest death toll, fatalities were also reported in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.

Hundreds of roads remain closed, severely hampering relief efforts and the delivery of essential aid to the most affected regions.

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