Hurricane Milton, a Category 5 storm with winds exceeding 157 mph, is rapidly intensifying, posing a severe threat to vulnerable regions. Authorities have issued evacuation orders, urging residents to prepare for the storm’s arrival.

The National Hurricane Center predicts widespread destruction, including the collapse of homes and trees, with areas potentially uninhabitable for weeks. The storm surge could raise water levels by up to 12 feet, particularly in Tampa Bay.

Officials are stressing the importance of evacuating, with Tampa’s Mayor and the Pinellas County Sheriff urging residents to leave. Governor Ron DeSantis highlighted the danger of debris from previous storms intensifying Milton’s impact.

Evacuations are in full swing, with highways packed as residents flee north. The “Know Your Zone” tool helps people find their evacuation zones, and early action is crucial as emergency services may become unavailable once the storm hits.