Hurricane Milton: Threats and Safety Measures

NHC(National Hurricane Center) states that Hurricane Milton is an extremely dangerous and life-threatening threat to the people of Florida. Residents are instructed to pay close attention to the directives issued by local authorities. 

1. NHC issued some key messages on Hurricane Milton on Tuesday, Oct 08, 2024.

• It claims that catastrophic hurricane-force winds and a life-threatening storm surge with deadly waves are forecast throughout areas of the Yucatan peninsula’s northern shore as of today, Tuesday, October 8, 2024.
• NHC also adds that Milton is still the most disastrous and life-threatening hurricane when it reaches the west coast of Florida on Wednesday and is expected to grow in size. A large destructive storm surge will occur along the parts of west Florida. This is a life-threatening scenario, and inhabitants in affected areas should heed local officials’ instructions and evacuate promptly if instructed to do so. 
• Devastating hurricane-force winds are forecast along Florida’s west coast, where a hurricane warning has been issued. Milton is anticipated to continue a hurricane as it passes the Florida peninsula, with life-threatening hurricane winds, particularly gusts, spreading across the peninsula.
• Preparations to protect life and property in the warning areas should be complete by tonight(8th October 2024). 
• Heavy rain will continue to fall on parts of Florida well in advance of Milton until early Thursday. This rainfall increases the probability of life-threatening flash, urban, and airborne floods, as well as moderate to catastrophic river flooding. Flooding will be worsened in regions where coastal and inland flooding combine, increasing the overall threat.

2. Steps were taken by the USGS to understand the impact of Hurricane Milton

• According to USGS, the scientists who are working with the USGS are using wave sensors to measure the shock of coastal waves which is caused by the storm. It has been deployed at eight locations in the Sunshine State between Naples and Crystal River. 
• Moreover, They are going to install one rapid deployment gauge on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge in St. Petersburg, Florida. This equipment is fully functional and is designed to deploy quickly. It will help the decision-makers analyze the real-time water level data, which will help them make appropriate decisions in emergency situations. Also, this data can help emergency managers keep an eye on the water level, which will help them to understand how they can save lives and property.
• The wave sensors are useful in providing depth analysis on factors such as wave heights, storm tides, and frequency. The most disastrous natural hazard among all is storm tides, which form storm surges when mixed with local tides. They have the potential to destroy homes and businesses, completely destroy the roads, bridges, water, and sewage systems, and even change the landscapes of coastal areas. 
• These sensors are quite useful and can help scientists analyze the data and identify the areas that have been most affected by the storm. This will eventually help them prepare for future events. They transfer these data to the emergency responders and local authorities to provide insights into recovery efforts. 

3. Key Safety Measures

Evacuation Plans

• Evacuation plans are crucial for you to stay safe and reach the nearest safe place to save yourself from the severe impact of Hurricane Milton. According to FloridaDisaster(The division of emergency management), a shuttle system has been organized for people who come under evacuation orders in certain areas. You can call the provided number (800-792-3413) for any help related to evacuation.
• You should be mentally prepared to evacuate before the storm arrives. Read the latest news on Milton to stay updated about the current status. If your home is in the zone of evacuation, then leave immediately before it’s too late. Don’t avoid the orders given by the officials. 
• Some of you may be worried about the distance you need to cover. So there is nothing to be anxious about as you only need to evacuate ten miles from your place. However, if you have decided to leave the country, then know that there’s going to be traffic because lots of people will be in line already. 
• If you are planning to evacuate to a hotel or motel, then booking should be in advance due to the high demand and less availability.
• Moreover, If you have no place to move, for instance, your family, friends, or a hotel or motel, then the only place that is left is the shelter—moving to a shelter? Then remember to bring your disaster equipment or necessities kit with you. Most importantly, don’t forget to fill your car tank before heading towards any destination during the evacuation period. For your information, shelters are not built for comfort, and you may not get everything you desire. So keep in mind that these are built only for your safety and to provide you with a place to stay during hazardous times.
• Prepare your emergency kit in advance, which includes all your medical supplies, foodstuff, water, and communication tools that are effective during flood times. 
• Keep your important stuff safe before flooding by elevating them to a safe place. Trim the trees if you have any outside your house to avoid any destruction caused by tree fall. Remove outdoor furniture if you have any. 

Flood Safety

• Stay updated about the route closures and traffic updates before moving to a new place. Also, keep all your essential documents with you. Move immediately if advised to evacuate and if your area is in an evacuation zone. However, before doing all these things, you should know if your house is going to be safe from storms. You should know the elevation above the flood stage and also know that your home and property will be damaged or be damaged free from the flood water. So that you can take safety measures about that, you should develop a flood emergency action plan.
• Avoid the roads or routes that are already flooded, as this is the primary cause of death during floods. Those who try to go through the flood roadways are usually dead due to the current. Don’t cross the barricades, as they are built for your safety purpose. Take care of yourself, not your vehicle, if you are stuck somewhere near the flood region. Do Not allow your kids to play or cross the flood water. 
• Do Not eat or drink food that has come in contact with flood water. They may cause some serious diseases. Don’t touch or handle any electrical equipment in wet areas. Stay away from places or buildings that are submerged in flood water.

Communication Strategies

• Keep yourself updated with the current updates issued by government officials. Read or watch news on recent updates such as weather news, government official’s announcements, and local news. 
• Install mobile apps such as Florida Storms, Florida 511, FEMA, Red Cross, and Gas Buddy from Google Play or Apple Store.

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