Florida state officials and emergency management have announced preparations for what could become the state’s largest evacuation since Hurricane Irma in 2017, as Hurricane Milton is expected to intensify rapidly into a major hurricane. Authorities are warning residents to take the situation seriously, describing it as a potentially catastrophic event.

Hurricane Milton, currently in the Atlantic, is projected to strengthen significantly over the next 48 hours as it moves towards the Florida coast. Meteorologists have indicated that the storm could reach Category 4 status, with life-threatening winds, storm surges, and heavy rainfall expected to impact many parts of the state.

In response to the threat, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency and urged residents in the hurricane’s projected path to start making evacuation plans. We are working closely with local emergency management teams to ensure that everyone is prepared for what could be a devastating storm,” DeSantis said in a press conference. This is not a storm to take lightly—residents must heed evacuation orders and prepare immediately.

Officials have indicated that evacuation zones are likely to be announced soon, affecting millions of Floridians. Highways and interstates across the state are expected to see heavy traffic as residents begin to leave vulnerable areas. Emergency shelters are also being set up to accommodate evacuees.

Emergency services are working around the clock to prepare resources, including food, water, and medical supplies, to assist those who will be affected. Local authorities are urging residents to have an emergency kit ready and to keep updated on evacuation notices through official channels.

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) also emphasized the urgency, predicting dangerous storm surges that could inundate coastal communities and lead to significant flooding. With Hurricane Milton showing signs of rapid intensification, residents need to be ready for potentially life-threatening impacts,” an NHC spokesperson said.

Hurricane Irma, which struck in 2017, led to widespread destruction across Florida, displacing millions and causing billions of dollars in damages. Officials are now stressing that a similar level of preparation and urgency is needed as Hurricane Milton continues to intensify.

Residents are urged to stay informed through official state and emergency management websites, as well as local news updates.