State of emergency in Florida

Florida is preparing for Hurricane Milton, which has prompted Governor Ron DeSantis to declare a state of emergency for 51 counties, including Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach. As the hurricane moves towards the Gulf Coast, local officials, including Fort Lauderdale's Mayor Dean J. Trantalis, have also declared states of emergency and set up resources to mitigate flooding risks. Miami-Dade County is actively clearing drains and monitoring canals in anticipation of heavy rainfall, with forecasts predicting 6 to 8 inches of rain and the possibility of flash flooding. Hurricane Milton is currently classified as a hurricane with sustained winds of 80 mph and is expected to intensify, potentially making landfall as a Category 2 or 3 storm later this week. Residents are advised to prepare emergency supplies and secure their properties as the storm approaches. Emergency management officials emphasize the importance of readiness as the state braces for possible life-threatening conditions.