Hurricane Milton Threatens Florida's Gas Supply and Safety
As Hurricane Milton approaches Florida, over 1,000 gas stations across the state are running out of fuel, creating a significant challenge for residents preparing for the storm. According to reports from GasBuddy, the percentage of gas stations without fuel surged from 3% to 14.5% within a day, reflecting the urgent demand as residents either evacuate or prepare for potential power outages due to the hurricane.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has emphasized that the state is not facing a fuel shortage, but rather a temporary disruption caused by panic buying. He announced that emergency supplies of gasoline are being distributed to affected areas, with 1.2 million gallons of fuel on the way to replenish stations running low. Despite these efforts, the long lines at gas stations indicate a heightened state of anxiety among residents.
The situation is particularly dire in Fort Myers, where up to 70% of gas stations were reported out of fuel as of Monday night. The governor has assured residents that fuel deliveries are ongoing, with 27 fuel trucks escorted by the Florida Highway Patrol to ensure timely distribution to the most impacted regions.
Hurricane Milton Downgraded but Still Dangerous
Hurricane Milton has been downgraded to a Category 4 storm, but it remains a significant threat as it heads towards Florida's Gulf Coast. The National Hurricane Center warns that Milton, which is expected to make landfall on Wednesday night, could potentially regain strength and become a Category 5 hurricane.
While the immediate danger for residents in Yucatán has passed, heavy rains and strong winds continue to affect the region. In Florida, preparations are underway as Governor DeSantis has declared a state of emergency in 51 counties, urging residents to finalize their evacuation plans and remain vigilant. The storm is projected to bring dangerous conditions, including flooding and high winds, to the Tampa Bay area.
With the Port of Tampa being a critical supply point for gasoline, any damage from the hurricane could exacerbate the fuel crisis in Florida. Experts warn that disruptions at the port could hinder fuel deliveries, complicating recovery efforts post-storm. Governor DeSantis has indicated that state officials are exploring alternative arrangements to ensure fuel availability if necessary.
As Hurricane Milton continues to pose a serious threat, Floridians are urged to stay informed and prepared for the potential impacts of this powerful storm.
