Cities affected so far and Florida’s airspace closure as Hurricane Milton arrives on the night of October 9, 2024

On the night of October 9, 2024, Hurricane Milton made landfall on Florida’s west coast, bringing with it a considerable threat due to strong winds and potential for devastating floods. With winds reaching up to 120 mph, Milton struck Siesta Key as a Category 3 hurricane, resulting in mass evacuations and emergency preparations across several Florida cities.

Main cities affected so far

The path of Hurricane Milton put several of Florida’s most populated cities directly in its way, particularly along the west coast and central regions of the state. Among the most affected areas to date are:

• Tampa: The city is facing direct impacts from heavy rains and intense winds. The risk of storm surges, combined with rising sea levels, prompted local authorities to issue evacuation notices for low-lying and more vulnerable areas.
• Fort Myers: This city is directly in Milton’s path and is also under hurricane warning. Rising waters and dangerous winds are major concerns, with several emergency shelters opened to accommodate residents who have fled their homes.
• Orlando: Although farther from the coast, the city is also feeling the hurricane’s effects. Authorities have warned of the danger of flooding in low-lying areas, and residents are advised to prepare for power outages and interruptions to essential services.
• Jacksonville: While the city is not in the main path of the hurricane, it is still experiencing significant impacts, especially from torrential rains and strong winds. Authorities have not ordered mass evacuations but encouraged residents of vulnerable areas to seek shelter in local facilities. Over 380 people are already housed in emergency shelters in the region.

Emergency measures in the cities

Preparations to face the hurricane are being undertaken with utmost urgency throughout the state. In several cities, schools and public buildings have been converted into temporary shelters. Tampa, Fort Myers, and other coastal cities also face rising sea levels, increasing the risk of storm surges. Authorities are focused on ensuring the safety of residents through evacuations and the suspension of non-essential services.

In Jacksonville, six emergency shelters remain open, with the potential to open five more if demand increases. To aid in the movement of people, public garages have been opened free of charge, and the local transport system, though reduced, continues to operate until weather conditions worsen.

Impact on Florida’s airspace

As Hurricane Milton approaches, several airlines have suspended flights to and from major airports in the region. Tampa International Airport was one of the first to halt operations, followed by other airports in Fort Myers and Orlando. Airport authorities announced that operations would only resume when weather conditions are deemed safe.

Flight suspensions are a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of passengers and crew, as Hurricane Milton brings violent winds and torrential rains that affect visibility and the ability of aircraft to operate safely. Passengers with scheduled flights in the coming days are advised to stay updated frequently and reschedule their trips if necessary.

Expected effects of Hurricane Milton

In addition to devastating winds and the risk of storm surges, Hurricane Milton is bringing significant rainfall that could cause flooding in various parts of the state. Authorities have issued warnings for residents to prepare for possible long-term power outages, interruptions to water services, and an increase in storm debris in affected areas.

Meteorologists predict that Milton will continue its course across Florida, affecting more cities in the coming hours. Heavy rain is one of the biggest challenges, especially in areas like St. Augustine and Palm Coast, which are already under severe flood alerts. These areas could receive between 6 to 8 inches of rain, increasing the risk of landslides and flash floods.

Preparations and timeline of actions taken

• October 8, 2024: Evacuations begin in several coastal areas, including Tampa and Fort Myers.
• October 9, 2024: Hurricane Milton makes landfall near Siesta Key as a Category 3 hurricane.
• October 9, 2024 (afternoon): Heavy rains and winds begin to impact Orlando and other central Florida areas.
• October 9, 2024 (evening): Flights are suspended, and airports in Tampa, Orlando, and Fort Myers close.
• Coming hours: The hurricane continues moving north, affecting more distant areas like Jacksonville.

Recommendations for residents

Local authorities continue to advise the population to follow evacuation guidelines and seek safe shelters. Remaining in vulnerable areas puts residents at risk from falling trees, flooding, and structural damage. Emergency services, such as firefighters and police, are on standby to assist with evacuation and rescue operations.

Additionally, the distribution of power is under constant monitoring, with teams ready to restore service as soon as winds die down. However, some areas are expected to be without electricity for days, depending on the severity of the damage caused by the hurricane.

Expectations for the coming hours

As Hurricane Milton continues its destructive path through Florida, more areas are expected to be affected by the storm, with strong winds and heavy rains. The main concern remains the safety of the population and the protection of critical infrastructures, such as hospitals and power grids. Authorities are urging residents to stay vigilant and follow official guidelines to minimize risks during this climate crisis.