HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Hurricane Milton rapidly intensified on Monday while moving through the Gulf of Mexico, posing a serious threat to Florida. With wind speeds reaching the strongest level, Milton is expected to generate a dangerous storm surge near Tampa Bay.
Residents in the area are urged to prepare for potential mass evacuations as the hurricane approaches. This comes less than two weeks after Hurricane Helene caused widespread flooding along the coastline, leaving many communities still recovering.
Alabama Prepares for Evacuees
The Alabama State Parks Division is ready to welcome guests impacted by Hurricane Milton. Hotel capacity can fill up quickly during evacuations, making state parks an option for shelter.
According to Alabama State Parks, teams are prepared to assist with stays at all 21 Alabama State Parks. Visitors are encouraged to make camping, cabin, or lodge reservations at the park that best suits their needs.
For accommodations, online reservations can be made here or by calling 1-800-Alapark.
Alabama Deploys to Support Florida
Alabama Task Force 3 (ALTF-3) is also deploying to assist Florida in response to Hurricane Milton. The task force will join Alabama Task Force 1, bringing both Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) and swift-water rescue capabilities to areas in need.
Some agencies represented in the task force include the State Urban Rescue Alliance, the National US&R Response System, the Alabama Emergency Management Agency, Guntersville Fire and Rescue, the Marshall County Emergency Management Agency, Madison Fire and Rescue, Decatur Fire and Rescue, and the Fort Payne Fire Department.
Additionally, Decatur Utilities is sending eight employees from the Electric Operations Work Group to Orlando, Florida, to aid in power restoration efforts following the hurricane.