Time to evacuate is running out as Hurricane Milton closes in on Florida
SUMMARY
Hurricane Milton is hurtling toward Florida's west coast, with Tampa Bay — home to over 3.3 million people — directly in its path. As a Category 5 storm, Milton's winds reached up to 160 mph, prompting mass evacuations, but some residents remain defiant. "So if you're in it, basically that's the coffin that you're in," Tampa Mayor Jane Castor grimly warned, referring to the 15-foot storm surge expected to engulf the city. Thousands have fled, but there’s no guarantee the last-minute rush will be enough. Accountant Scott Joiner, still reeling from Hurricane Helene's destruction, plans to ride out Milton, despite his flooded home and shark-filled streets just weeks ago. With 5.9 million people under evacuation orders, officials stress that staying behind means fending for yourself. Governor Ron DeSantis warned residents to brace for widespread impacts, emphasizing the importance of evacuating if ordered by local officials.
