Hurricane Milton, a powerful category 5 storm, is barreling towards Florida's Gulf Coast, prompting widespread evacuations and dire warnings from local officials. The storm's trajectory has shifted south, with landfall expected within the next 24 hours. NBC News correspondents have been providing extensive coverage of the storm's impact, highlighting the urgent need for residents to follow safety instructions and seek shelter immediately.
1. **Storm Updates and Forecasts**
NBC News has been tracking Hurricane Milton's path closely. Al Roker, a renowned meteorologist, has been providing live updates on the storm's movement and intensity. The latest forecast indicates that the storm is expected to double in size, posing a catastrophic threat to the region. Over 400,000 people are under mandatory evacuation orders, with many more at risk of flash flooding and river flooding.
Tom Llamas reported from Sarasota, where residents are bracing for a potential direct hit from the storm. The city's infrastructure is being tested as the storm surge is expected to be extensive and life-threatening. In Ft. Myers, Sam Brock reported on the evacuation efforts, highlighting the challenges faced by residents as they try to leave the area before the storm surge hits.
Priscilla Thompson provided updates from Orlando, where local shelters are filling up with residents seeking refuge from the storm. Disney and Universal theme parks have closed early in anticipation of the storm's impact. Tropicana Field, home of the Tampa Bay Rays, has been transformed into a massive base camp for first responders.
2. **Evacuation Efforts and Safety Measures**
NBC News has emphasized the importance of evacuation orders, urging residents to take the warnings seriously. Michelle Grossman reported on the ground, speaking with residents who are heeding the warnings and seeking shelter. The storm's winds are expected to gust over 110 miles per hour, making travel on roads extremely dangerous.
Local officials have been racing to clear debris, but with time running out, residents are advised to avoid any remaining hazards. NBC News correspondent Jay Gray highlighted the risks associated with flash flooding and river flooding, warning that these conditions could be catastrophic and life-threatening.
3. **Political and Social Implications**
The White House has been actively pushing back against misinformation surrounding the storm. Former President Trump has made misleading statements about FEMA and the hurricane response, which have been widely criticized. NBC News has been tracking these political developments, highlighting how they impact public perception and trust in government agencies.
Additionally, NBC News has been covering the broader political landscape, including the upcoming elections. A recent poll showed a significant shift in public opinion regarding which candidate would bring about change, with Kamala Harris leading the pack. This shift in voter sentiment is crucial as the election season heats up.
NBC News Digital is a collection of innovative and powerful news brands that deliver compelling, diverse, and engaging news stories. They feature NBCNews.com, MSNBC.com, TODAY.com, Nightly News, Meet the Press, Dateline, and the existing apps and digital extensions of these respective properties.
4. **Relief Efforts and Community Response**
Hundreds of relief workers are on the ground, along with thousands of national guard members. The President has declared a public health emergency in Florida, mobilizing federal resources to support the affected areas. Local communities are coming together to provide aid and support to those in need.
NBC News has been highlighting the human suffering and resilience in the face of this devastating storm. Residents like Jennifer North and her daughter are hunkering down to ride out the storm, demonstrating the determination and courage of those affected by Hurricane Milton.
