Florida hurricane outbreak

Gas Shortages, Gridlock, and Economic Hardships Leave Millions Vulnerable as Category 3 Storm Hits

As Hurricane Milton approached Florida in early October 2024, residents along the Gulf Coast faced a critical decision—stay and risk the storm’s wrath, or flee to safety. However, for many Floridians, evacuation wasn’t a simple choice. Widespread gas shortages and clogged highways trapped thousands of families, forcing them to remain in the path of the powerful storm. Hotels across the state were fully booked, with some residents describing exorbitant price hikes for the few remaining rooms. Those with pets struggled to find accommodations, while others simply couldn’t afford to leave, calling attention to how evacuation has become an economic privilege  .

One family’s ordeal, shared widely on social media, illustrated these hardships. Sarah Lutzker, a mother from St. Petersburg, recounted her failed evacuation attempt, explaining how she and her family were forced to turn back home due to a lack of gas and viable shelter options. “We really tried to get out,” she shared, “but the roads were clogged, and we couldn’t find gas anywhere” . Like many others, Lutzker found herself sheltering in place, taking precautions as Hurricane Milton’s winds battered her apartment, leaving more than 3 million without power statewide .

Milton, which made landfall near Siesta Key, delivered heavy flooding, widespread damage, and wind speeds topping 85 miles per hour as it barreled across the state. Central and northern Florida saw extensive flooding, while coastal areas suffered from storm surges that overwhelmed levees and drainage systems. Tampa and Orlando, in particular, were heavily affected, with trees downed and homes flooded . For many residents, the damage from Milton came just weeks after Hurricane Helene struck, compounding the destruction and making recovery efforts even more urgent .

As Florida grapples with the aftermath, questions are being raised about the state’s evacuation infrastructure and why so many were left behind. With roads gridlocked, no flights available, and emergency shelters overflowing, it became clear that evacuating wasn’t an option for everyone. The economic burden of last-minute evacuations also highlighted the disparity between those who could afford to leave and those who couldn’t. “You can only evacuate if you have the money,” Lutzker said, summarizing the plight of many Floridians unable to escape Milton’s path  

Hurricane Milton has wreaked havoc across Florida after making landfall in early October 2024 as a powerful Category 5 storm. The Gulf Coast, particularly areas like Sarasota, Fort Myers, and Tampa, experienced catastrophic storm surges up to 12 feet, leading to massive flooding. Winds exceeding 150 mph toppled power lines, causing widespread outages for millions. Tornadoes and flash flooding compounded the damage, leaving at least 17 confirmed dead. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with emergency teams working tirelessly to assist stranded residents.

The storm’s trajectory spread destruction inland as well, impacting Central Florida and major cities like Orlando. Heavy rains, exceeding 12 inches in some places, have triggered flash floods, making roadways impassable. Residents in lower-lying areas were urged to evacuate in advance, and officials have warned that many areas will remain without power for days or even weeks.

Milton’s intensity was comparable to the devastating hurricanes Ian and Helene, but its expanded wind radius made it uniquely dangerous. The National Hurricane Center and local authorities issued mandatory evacuation orders for hundreds of thousands before the hurricane hit. However, many chose to stay, leading to dangerous rescues during the height of the storm .

As the storm moves inland, tornadoes continue to be a risk, especially to the right of the storm’s track. Officials have urged all residents to seek shelter and avoid flooded areas. Cleanup and recovery are expected to be extensive and prolonged, with some areas severely damaged by both wind and water.

Milton’s aftermath serves as a stark reminder of Florida’s vulnerability to powerful hurricanes. Coastal areas that haven’t seen a major storm in over a century are facing unprecedented challenges. First responders and the National Guard have been deployed to the worst-hit areas, but recovery may take months, with early estimates of economic damage in the billions.