Fuel Shortages and Lengthy Waits Grip Florida as Milton’s Aftermath Continues
Florida is experiencing widespread fuel shortages in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, causing long lines at gas stations as residents struggle to return home and resume daily activities. The fuel crisis has affected essential commutes to work, school, and other vital services. In response, the state has established three fuel distribution sites, offering residents up to 10 gallons of gasoline for free. Authorities are planning to set up additional sites as demand grows.
Mass Evacuations Ahead of Hurricane Milton
Ahead of Hurricane Milton’s landfall, an unusually high number of people evacuated, spurred by dire warnings of the storm’s potential impact. At its peak, Milton intensified into a Category 5 hurricane, adding urgency to evacuation efforts. Officials believe heightened awareness from Hurricane Helene, which struck just two weeks earlier, played a role in the mass exodus.
In Punta Gorda, a coastal town hit by the storm, the damage was less severe than anticipated. Mayor Lynne Matthews reported that only three people required rescue from floodwaters after Milton, compared to 121 rescues during Helene. “People listened to the evacuation order,” Matthews said, crediting local authorities for effectively spreading the message throughout communities.
Climate Crisis and Storm Intensification
Scientists point to the climate crisis as a key factor behind the intensity of both Milton and Helene. An unusually warm Gulf of Mexico, a result of climate change, fueled stronger winds and brought heavier rainfall, compounding the damage across Florida’s coastal regions. The rapid succession of storms has left many residents struggling to recover as they now face another daunting clean-up.
Resilience Amid the Chaos
Despite the widespread devastation, many residents remain resilient, determined to rebuild. Pat Hurst, a longtime resident of Siesta Key, reflected on the challenges of back-to-back hurricanes. “Paradise is still paradise despite this mess,” she said. However, the emotional and physical toll of cleaning up from one storm while preparing for another has been exhausting for many.
Biden to Visit Florida Amid Calls for More Aid
President Joe Biden is scheduled to visit Florida on Sunday to assess the damage and advocate for more federal disaster recovery aid. He is expected to urge Speaker of the House Mike Johnson to call Congress back into session to approve additional funds. So far, Johnson has declined to take such action.
Governor Ron DeSantis has expressed satisfaction with the federal government’s response, noting that Florida’s requests for aid have been met. “We’re here for you,” DeSantis said, recalling his conversation with President Biden. As recovery efforts intensify, Floridians are bracing for the long road ahead in rebuilding their communities.