New deaths after Hurricane Milton are avoidable if residents take precautions, DeSantis says
As Florida mourns the loss of at least 16 lives due to Hurricane Milton, Governor Ron DeSantis emphasized that further deaths from the storm’s aftermath can likely be prevented if residents follow safety warnings.
Before making landfall, Milton’s outer bands triggered a series of tornadoes in St. Lucie County on Wednesday, resulting in multiple fatalities. “With tornadoes, there’s very little time to prepare. You just have to take cover and hope for the best,” DeSantis stated during a Friday news conference in St. Petersburg.
“We’re now in a phase where fatalities are preventable,” the governor continued. “Some of these tragedies have been caused by contact with downed power lines and floodwaters. Hazards are still present, so please, exercise caution. Don’t walk through floodwaters, be mindful when using ladders, and always operate generators outside of your home.”
DeSantis noted that while the situation has stabilized, it’s crucial for residents to make safe decisions moving forward.
Biden will travel Sunday to parts of Florida affected by Milton
The White House announced Friday that President Joe Biden will visit areas of Florida affected by Hurricane Milton on Sunday, where he is expected to meet with local officials and assess the damage firsthand.
