As Hurricane Milton heads toward the west coast of Florida, where it is expected to get stronger and do a lot of damage, authorities have set up evacuation zones and given important safety instructions.
To stay safe from damaging winds, storm surges, and flash flooding, residents need to stay aware. Inland towns will also be in danger from hurricane-force winds, and heavy rains could lead to devastating floods.
To stay safe, people in the area are being asked to get to know the evacuation zones and take these important steps:
Get ready now by learning about the risks of hurricanes, such as heavy rain, strong winds, flooding, and storms.
Know the storm plans, evacuation routes, and emergency shelters in your area.
Gather basic things like food, drink, medicine, and things your pet needs.
Protect your outdoor furniture, clean your gutters, and think about getting rain shutters.
Charge your electronics and buy extra power supplies.
Know your escape route and shelter choices if you are in an evacuation zone, and practice getting out of the area with your pets.
Do what the area emergency managers tell you to do.
Check on your friends who might be at risk, especially the elderly or people who need extra help.
Stay away from floods because six inches of water can knock you down.
Do not drive through flooded places or try to walk or swim through the water.
Take care of your mental health during and after the storm.
Several counties have sent out evacuation orders, such as:
In Charlotte County, there are Zones A and B, as well as mobile houses and manufactured homes.
People who live in campers, tents, mobile homes, and prefab homes in Citrus County.
Zones A and B, mobile homes, and places that are likely to flood are in Collier County.
Other counties have sent out optional evacuation notices or orders.
“If you stay in one of those evacuation areas, you’re going to die,” said Jane Castor, the mayor of Tampa, about the value of evacuation zones.
Families can safely leave if they know where the evacuation zones are and follow the safety rules. This lets emergency services help those who need it.
During Hurricane Milton, stay aware, do what the locals tell you to do, and put your safety first.
And there are evacuation zones and rules in place to keep people safe. Pay attention to the advice, take the necessary safety measures, and stay safe.
The National Hurricane Center says Hurricane Milton will do a huge amount of harm. Don’t wait; get ready now and leave if you are told to.
Remember that your safety is the most important thing. Watch out, do what you’re told, and stay safe during the storm.