Hurricane Milton is set to make landfall on Florida's Gulf Coast, with authorities warning residents to evacuate as soon as possible. Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the window for evacuation is quickly closing.
With sustained wind speeds near 130 mph expected at landfall, Milton is forecasted to be a major hurricane posing significant risks to the region. Tropical storm conditions are anticipated to begin by midday Wednesday, with the storm reaching its peak during the early morning hours on Thursday.
Sheriff Chronister highlighted the potential dangers posed by the approaching hurricane, stating that once winds exceed 40 mph, bridges will be closed, and emergency response efforts will be severely limited. He emphasized the importance of heeding evacuation orders to ensure the safety of residents.
Despite the challenges posed by the impending storm, Sheriff Chronister expressed gratitude towards the community for taking the warnings seriously. He commended residents for their proactive approach to preparedness, noting the increased traffic on highways, long lines at grocery stores, and high demand at gas stations.
As Hurricane Milton approaches, residents are urged to prioritize their safety and follow evacuation guidelines issued by local authorities. The sheriff emphasized the need for residents to hunker down in a safe location until the storm passes, as emergency response efforts may be delayed due to hazardous conditions.
