51 Florida Counties Under State of Emergency Ahead of Milton’s Impact

As Hurricane Milton barrels toward Florida’s west coast, Governor Ron DeSantis has expanded the state of emergency to cover 51 counties, preparing for what is expected to be a catastrophic event.

State of Emergency Expanded Across Florida

On Sunday, DeSantis issued an amendment to Executive Order (EO) 24-214, which initially placed 35 counties under a state of emergency. Sixteen more counties were added as the storm strengthened, now including heavily populated areas like Broward, Miami-Dade, Palm Beach, and Monroe.

The emergency declaration is a proactive measure as Hurricane Milton is expected to bring life-threatening storm surges, severe winds, and widespread damage to the Gulf Coast. DeSantis emphasized the need for swift action and coordination to protect Floridians as Milton is projected to hit with significant force.

Counties Preparing for Milton’s Impact

The counties included in the expanded emergency order are taking immediate steps to brace for Milton’s impact. Among those under the emergency declaration are large coastal and inland areas such as Hillsborough, Pinellas, Polk, and Sarasota, where authorities are warning of potential evacuations and urging residents to finalize their hurricane preparations. In addition to the densely populated counties of Broward and Miami-Dade, rural areas like Gilchrist, Suwanee, and Lafayette are also preparing for the storm. The added counties reflect the unpredictability of Milton’s path, which could impact both coastal and inland regions. Counties under the declaration include Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Brevard, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, Columbia, DeSoto, Dixie, Duval, Flagler, Gilchrist, Glades, Hamilton, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Indian River, and many more.

DeSantis: “Prepared to Meet the Dangers”

In his statement, Governor DeSantis emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that Hurricane Milton is expected to make landfall as a catastrophic major hurricane. “The forecast indicates that Tropical Storm Milton will be at or near a catastrophic major hurricane upon landfall along the Florida West Coast, accompanied by life-threatening storm surge and severe wind gusts for the Florida Gulf Coast,” DeSantis said.

The state of emergency will allow the Florida government to mobilize resources and coordinate recovery efforts efficiently. Emergency services, evacuation centers, and rescue teams are being deployed in anticipation of the storm’s arrival, ensuring a rapid response to any immediate dangers posed by Milton.

DeSantis stressed the importance of preparing for the worst, as Milton is projected to bring extreme weather conditions to millions of Floridians. “As Governor of Florida, I am responsible for meeting the dangers presented to the State of Florida and its people by this emergency,” he added, ensuring that state resources would be fully mobilized to assist in recovery efforts.

Preparing for Hurricane Milton

With the hurricane expected to hit within days, Floridians are being urged to take precautions, follow local advisories, and make final preparations for the storm’s arrival. From rural communities to major metropolitan areas, residents are advised to secure their homes, gather supplies, and prepare for potential evacuation orders.

With the state of emergency now covering more than half of Florida’s counties, officials are closely monitoring the situation as Hurricane Milton continues its approach.