As Hurricane Milton approaches the west coast of Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis has announced a robust preparedness plan, mobilizing at least 37,000 linemen to ensure swift recovery efforts post-storm. The hurricane is expected to make landfall between Wednesday evening and early Thursday morning. DeSantis emphasized the unpredictability of the storm’s path, cautioning Floridians against fixating on the cone of uncertainty that only depicts potential eye points of the hurricane. He forewarned residents of wide-ranging impacts that could extend well beyond the projected paths, with a state of emergency currently declared for 51 counties, including areas as far northeast as St. Johns.
The state’s preparations are in high gear as Governor DeSantis outlined a comprehensive strategy to support local communities. The state is actively fulfilling nearly 1,000 requests for resources, which include crucial supplies like tiger dams, generators, food, water, and tarps. There are also measures in place to deploy a significant length of flood protection systems, alongside the provision for special needs shelters supported by generators and Starlink internet access for all counties. To support emergency services, Florida is operating over 350 ambulances along with additional paratransit vehicles that are on standby in case of heightened needs post-hurricane.
Governor DeSantis stressed the management of fuel resources in response to reports of long lines at gas stations as Hurricane Milton approaches. He reassured residents that despite the visible fuel shortages at certain locations, there is no overall fuel shortage in the state. Over the last 24 hours, the state has dispatched fuel to areas running low, with approximately 268,000 gallons of diesel and 110,000 gallons of gasoline now in supply. Additional supplies of 1.2 million gallons are en route to ensure continued availability for residents. The Florida Highway Patrol is aiding the logistical efforts by escorting fuel trucks into impacted areas to streamline access.
As preparations escalate, the state is mobilizing significant manpower with approximately 8,000 National Guard members being activated ahead of the storm. DeSantis expressed gratitude towards other states, like Texas, that are sending additional resources and support. He highlighted the unprecedented number of search and rescue aircraft—34 in total—that are prepared for deployment prior to the storm making landfall. This level of readiness reflects the lessons learned from previous storms and underscores Florida’s commitment to ensuring community safety and effective disaster response.
Further plans include staging linemen and power restoration assets, with a goal of having more than 40,000 linemen available, surpassing the contingency plans set for Hurricane Helene. This includes 4,200 linemen from electrical cooperatives, who are aiming to bolster their number to 7,500. Many of these workers are arriving from distant states, some as far away as California, showcasing the collective effort of various states working together during emergencies. DeSantis underscored the critical nature of advance preparations in restoring power and infrastructure as rapidly as possible after Hurricane Milton’s expected landfall.
As the storm intensifies, with current wind speeds reported at 150 mph, Florida remains on high alert. Governor DeSantis has reiterated the necessity for residents to stay informed and prepared for possible disruptions following the hurricane. His administration’s extensive response plan aims to mitigate risks and safeguard communities from the devastations that Hurricane Milton may leave in its wake. By coordinating with local and state resources alike, Florida hopes to manage the impacts of the hurricane effectively while ensuring that crucial services and support are deployed to those in need.