The Associated Press reported that "Milton" is heading towards Florida, becoming the second fierce hurricane to threaten the state in two weeks. "Milton" is expected to hit Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula violently, prompting US authorities to issue evacuation orders and warn about the situation on the west coast of Florida.
Previously, another hurricane "Helene" had just landed in the Big Bend area of Florida on September 26. As "Milton" approached, the communities that were hit hard by "Helene" rushed to clear debris that could become dangerous objects.
The US National Hurricane Center said that "Milton" has a maximum sustained wind speed of about 285 kilometers per hour. The center warned: "After landing in Florida, "Milton" is expected to remain an extremely dangerous hurricane."
Florida government authorities have issued mandatory evacuation orders for some areas, including Tampa, which has a population of more than 3 million and some areas may be the first to be hit. The National Weather Service said that if "Milton" maintains its current path, it will be the most serious storm to affect the Tampa area in more than 100 years.
A large-scale storm surge is expected on the west coast of Florida on the evening of the 8th or the early morning of the 9th, and Tampa may be flooded with 2.4 to 3.6 meters of sea water.
Florida Governor DeSantis announced that 51 of the state's 67 counties have entered a state of emergency, indicating that "Milton" will maintain a certain level of destructive power when it passes through Florida and leaves the east coast. "This is a fierce hurricane, and residents in the danger zone should evacuate immediately."
