Massive National Guard Deployment in Florida for Hurricane Milton’s Impact

Soldiers in uniform and boots standing in formation.

Thousands of National Guard members in Florida brace for Hurricane Milton’s impact under Governor DeSantis’ largest rescue operation ever seen in the state.

At a Glance

  • Governor DeSantis mobilizes 6,000 National Guard troops for hurricane response.
  • President Biden emphasizes federal coordination amid misinformation fears.
  • Majority of Florida’s counties declared under a state of emergency.
  • Significant infrastructure challenges as Hurricane Milton, though weakened, makes landfall.

Governor DeSantis’s Robust Response

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis initiated the state’s largest emergency response to counter Hurricane Milton by deploying 6,000 National Guard troops. Facing the aftermath of such a devastating hurricane, DeSantis also plans for aid from neighboring states, utilizing tactical vehicles, helicopters, and specially trained teams to ensure a swift and efficient response.

Declared a state of emergency, 51 counties prepare as Florida’s Division of Emergency Management elevates its operations to Level 1. The announcement came as Milton approached the state’s west coast, with warnings issued for coastal areas, projecting heavy storm surges.

Impact of Hurricane Milton on Communities

Hurricane Milton has already left millions without power and caused destructive flooding. Milton, reaching land as a Category 3 and later weakening, has resulted in widespread damage in Sarasota, St. Petersburg, and beyond. Infrastructure has been hit hard, including a critical bridge in Sarasota County.

Deaths and injuries have also occurred due to tornadoes spawned by the hurricane. Rescue efforts are prioritizing life-saving interventions and infrastructure restoration where feasible. Challenges include logistical setbacks due to infrastructure damage and disrupted communications.

Federal and State Coordination Amidst Uncertainty

President Biden postponed a significant overseas trip, underscoring the seriousness of the response efforts. Coordination with FEMA is underway, with resources stretched thin due to drained disaster relief funds from previous storms. Assistance from federal agencies aims to alleviate some burden from the state.

“It’s an incredible, incredible, incredible hurricane,” said John Morales, a hurricane specialist for NBC 6 South Florida.

Evacuation orders remain, as school closures, flight cancellations, and logistic disruptions continue to challenge the state. Communities experience unprecedented challenges with responses having to balance immediate needs and long-term recovery plans.

Sources:

  1. Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Preparedness Efforts for Hurricane Milton
  2. Hurricane Milton: ‘Potentially catastrophic’ Category 5 storm takes aim at Florida
  3. What officials are saying in aftermath of Hurricane Milton