Hurricane Milton Triggers Major Evacuations in Florida

Hurricane Milton is rapidly intensifying and is expected to make landfall in Florida's Gulf Coast, potentially reaching Category 3 or 4 status by midweek. Emergency officials in Florida are preparing for large-scale evacuations, with over six million residents advised to leave high-risk areas, particularly along the Tampa Bay region. Mandatory evacuation orders have already been issued for certain zones, including Manatee County and Anna Maria Island, with the state coordinating extensive emergency response efforts. Governor Ron DeSantis noted the vulnerability of the Tampa Bay area to storm surge, which could reach alarming heights of up to 10 feet. Residents are also reminded to prepare pet evacuation plans, as leaving animals behind can be perilous. The National Weather Service warns of life-threatening conditions beginning Tuesday night.