Authorities in Tampa are strongly advising residents to evacuate the area promptly as Hurricane Milton advances towards the Florida coast. Tampa Mayor Jane Castor emphasized the urgency of the situation during a news conference on Monday, urging residents to leave without delay. She highlighted the importance of heeding evacuation orders, citing the risks faced by those who chose to remain in their homes during Hurricane Helene and had to be rescued after being trapped by storm surges.
Mayor Castor expressed grave concerns about the impending storm, stating that Hurricane Milton is expected to bring a combination of powerful winds, heavy rainfall, storm surges, and other hazardous conditions to the community. She warned that the upcoming event is likely to be more severe than previous storms, such as Hurricane Helene, which primarily caused flooding in the area.
Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw echoed the mayor's plea for residents to evacuate immediately, emphasizing the potential dangers of remaining in evacuation zones. Chief Bercaw cautioned that first responders may not be able to reach individuals who choose to stay behind, putting both residents and emergency personnel at risk.
Residents are strongly advised to prioritize their safety and comply with evacuation orders to ensure their well-being during the approaching storm. Authorities are working diligently to prepare for Hurricane Milton and are urging residents to take proactive measures to protect themselves and their families from the anticipated impacts of the storm.
