September 16th, 2024 marked the day of one of the deadliest hurricanes to hit mainland U.S since Katrina in 2005. 

According to the Washington Post, hurricane Helene’s death toll is at about 221 deaths around six states. They continue to explain, the current death toll is ranked the third highest among the hurricanes that have hit the mainlands of the United States. 

A little over three weeks later, what seemed to be another hurricane was looking to hit the south of Florida coming in at a category 5. Hurricane Milton was set to be bigger, more destructive, and more dangerous than Helene’s damage. With storm surges from 10-15 feet, seen as life threatening. Wind threats were up to 155 mph and rainfall was set to be about 10-11’’.  Locals were asked to evacuate depending on what zone you were located in. Florida governor Ron DeSantis initiated evacuation plans to help residents in Zones A, B, and C to leave their homes and find safety. 

Helene’s effect created fear and panic as communities were trying to clean up the mess left behind from Helene while also trying to prepare for Milton’s arrival. Milton made landfall late Wednesday and early Thursday therefore people were advised to leave their county’s and go to places that were safe. The mandatory evacuations became a bigger thing when some residents were refusing to leave their homes in hope that nothing bad will happen to them. Attorney General of Florida, Ashley Moody explained the importance of evacuating and if you choose to stay, you should be prepared for anything. Moody went on to state, “You probably need to write your name in permanent marker on your arm so that people know who you are when they get to you afterwards,” NPR quoted her saying in an article from the Nightly. 

Even local meteorologists like John Morales, were seeing the possible outcomes of the storm and waves of emotion struck because of the saddening news. This in all created fear and panic throughout Florida. Although the storm approached the mainland less powerful than expected, the impacts were still undeniably harsh. AP news stated, more than three million people were left in the dark with no power. Death rates are up to about 24 and flooding, according to local news outlets, is becoming record breaking as streets are flooded with king tides. 

It is suggested and mainly urged to watch for emergency alerts, make sure to have evacuation plans, and if you’re located in either zone A, B, or C  during a hurricane watch, make sure to listen to local officials and meteorologists for any new updates concerning the upcoming storms and or important weather information.