Duval Times

Senator Rick Scott of Florida has been actively monitoring the developments surrounding Hurricane Milton, which is expected to make landfall on Florida's Gulf Coast. After receiving a briefing from Dr. Michael Brennan, Director of the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Senator Scott has urged residents in affected areas to finalize their preparations and evacuate if necessary.

"Hurricane Milton will make landfall along Florida’s Gulf Coast tonight as a major and incredibly dangerous and deadly storm," stated Senator Scott. He emphasized the severity of the situation, highlighting that "communities along our Gulf Coast, especially those in the Tampa Bay area from Hillsborough County down through Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee and Collier Counties will see devastating and unsurvivable storm surge up to 15 feet."

Senator Scott also shared his personal experience of evacuating inland due to mandatory orders and advised others in similar zones to do the same. "No one should die in this storm," he said, stressing that emergency responders would not be able to assist once conditions worsen.

The senator assured that efforts are underway for recovery post-storm. "After this storm passes, Florida will rebuild, recover and emerge stronger than ever before," he said. He remains in contact with local, state, and federal officials to ensure resources are available for response and recovery.

In preparation for Hurricane Milton's impact, Senator Scott has communicated with various state leaders and federal officials like FEMA Region 4 Administrator Robert Samaan and U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. These discussions aim to secure necessary resources for Florida.

Furthermore, Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio have jointly written letters to President Joe Biden supporting emergency declarations for Florida ahead of Hurricane Milton's arrival. The requests were approved by President Biden following these communications.

Additionally, they have requested expedited federal plans to address potential disruptions at the Port of Tampa Bay due to its significance in supplying petroleum products.

Floridians are encouraged by Senator Scott to visit his website for hurricane preparedness information or seek assistance with federal agencies if needed.