Duval Times

U.S. Senators Marco Rubio and Rick Scott have urged President Joe Biden to approve Florida's request for a pre-landfall emergency declaration as Hurricane Milton approaches the state. The senators sent a letter emphasizing the need for federal support due to the anticipated impact of the hurricane, which is expected to bring strong winds, heavy rains, and significant storm surge.

The request comes shortly after Florida was affected by Hurricane Helene, leaving parts of the state vulnerable. The senators stressed that accessing federal resources is crucial for protecting residents and property.

“Currently, Milton is expected to make landfall as a major hurricane on Florida’s Gulf coast," stated the letter from Rubio and Scott. "Ensuring that the state has access to the federal resources it needs is imperative to protecting Floridians, property, and our communities."

The letter also highlighted the urgency of granting Governor Ron DeSantis's request ahead of Hurricane Milton's arrival.