Florida Faces Hurricane Milton: Major Tourist Attractions Close and Evacuations Underway
As Hurricane Milton approaches Florida, authorities have taken significant measures to ensure the safety of residents and visitors. Major tourist attractions, including all four theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort, are closing their doors in anticipation of the storm's impact. The closures, which began on Wednesday at 1 p.m. Miami time, affect Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney Springs. These parks are expected to remain closed through Thursday, with limited operations possibly resuming at Disney Springs later in the day.
The imminent threat of Hurricane Milton, classified as a Category 4 storm, has raised concerns about severe flooding, particularly in the Tampa Bay area. Experts predict storm surges of 8 to 12 feet could inundate the region, making it one of the most vulnerable locations in the United States. The last major hurricane to directly hit Tampa was in 1921, and the city has grown significantly since then, now housing over 3 million residents. The combination of rapid urbanization and climate change has heightened the risk of catastrophic flooding, with estimates suggesting potential damages could reach $175 billion.
Evacuations are in full swing, with authorities issuing orders for six counties around Tampa Bay, which are home to nearly 4 million people. Mayor Jane Castor has urged residents to leave evacuation zones, stressing the life-threatening nature of the storm. As residents flee, images of long lines of cars on Florida roads have surfaced, reflecting the urgency of the situation. To facilitate evacuations, tolls on highways have been waived, allowing residents to escape more easily.
The National Hurricane Center has described Milton as extremely dangerous, with wind gusts expected to reach up to 285 km/h. The storm is projected to make landfall in southern Florida before moving up the west coast, affecting areas such as Naples, St. Petersburg, and Tampa, and eventually reaching Miami. With climate change contributing to the intensity of storms, this hurricane season is shaping up to be one of the most extraordinary in recent history.
Residents are left with anxiety about the aftermath; many are worried about their homes and communities. The impact of Hurricane Milton could be felt for years to come, as Florida grapples with the realities of living in a climate-vulnerable region.
