Hurricane Milton Takes Aim at Florida: Evacuation Orders Amid 'Unreal' Threat

Hurricane Milton is advancing towards Florida's Gulf Coast, threatening areas still recovering from Hurricane Helene. Over a million people are under evacuation orders. Strong winds, storm surges, and flash floods are anticipated, with a major impact expected on densely populated regions. Preparations include activating National Guard members and delaying flights.

Hurricane Milton, a formidable force gaining momentum, is set to strike Florida's Gulf Coast, prompting evacuation orders for over a million residents. The threat of the storm comes barely two weeks after the region suffered from Hurricane Helene, leaving the area vulnerable.

The U.S. National Hurricane Center has declared Milton as potentially one of the most destructive hurricanes to impact west-central Florida. Residents are urged to seek safety as storm surges and heavy rainfall pose significant risks of flooding, both along the coastline and further inland.

Anticipating widespread disruption, the state has activated 8,000 National Guard members. With the region's logistic systems bracing for the hurricane, significant flight cancellations and delays are already reported, and President Joe Biden has postponed international commitments to manage the federal response.

(With inputs from agencies.)