Florida Declares State of Emergency as Hurricane Milton Approaches
Florida is bracing for Hurricane Milton, which is expected to be one of the most destructive storms in history. In response, officials have declared a state of emergency and urged six million residents to evacuate immediately.
For those unable to leave in time, the situation is dire. Water levels are anticipated to rise rapidly, with flooding already reaching one meter. This makes it nearly impossible to escape the disaster zone quickly. As the water continues to rise, it could reach heights comparable to that of an average person, posing new dangers such as fast-moving currents that could sweep away vehicles and debris. The forecast includes waves that could reach three to five meters in height, with wind speeds predicted to hit 270 kilometers per hour. For context, winds of 150 kilometers per hour can knock a person off their feet. Geologists warn that a hurricane of this magnitude could significantly alter the coastline.
In a race against time, residents are taking measures to protect their homes by boarding up windows and reinforcing structures with heavy-duty cables.
Satellite imagery shows the storm intensifying as it approaches the coast, with landfall expected within the next few hours.
