Just 11 days after the devastating Hurricane Helene caused widespread damage in Florida, residents are now preparing for the impact of Hurricane Milton, a Category 5 cyclone that threatens to strike the peninsula this week. Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency in 51 of the state's 67 counties, including the city of Orlando.

Hurricane Milton has strengthened into a major hurricane and is expected to make landfall on the west coast of Florida as soon as Wednesday evening. @FLSERT is addressing more than 600 resource requests from communities in the storm’s path. We are deploying truckloads of food and… pic.twitter.com/M6V76oibn8

— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) October 7, 2024

Authorities have urged residents in evacuation zones to leave and expedite preparations. Milton is expected to trigger Florida’s largest evacuation since Hurricane Irma in 2017. With no significant changes in its trajectory, Milton is set to hit the state starting Wednesday, bringing heavy rains and dangerous winds that are already being felt in some areas. Regions like Tampa Bay, which were heavily affected by Helene, could face further flooding.

Officials in Pinellas County have warned of life-threatening storm surges and hurricane-force winds. Meanwhile, long lines for sandbags are visible across the state.

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer is expected to provide more details on preparations, and several educational institutions, such as the University of Central Florida, have canceled classes from Tuesday to Thursday. Authorities remain on high alert, hoping this hurricane won't repeat the devastating effects of Helene.