Storms outer bands already having impact on Florida [Video]

Hurricane Milton has begun unleashing its outer bands on Florida’s Gulf Coast, prompting urgent warnings from emergency management leaders across the state.

Channel 2′s Jorge Estevez is in Orlando where community leaders are emphasizing the storm’s severity and advising residents to be prepared for the worst.

“This is it, folks,” said Cathie Perkins, the Director of Emergency Management in Pinellas County, as Hurricane Milton began affecting the area.

Perkins warned that the storm’s impact would intensify with time, leaving many to fend for themselves.

In Hillsborough County, Sheriff Chad Chronister echoed this sentiment, urging residents to face the reality.

“When you figure it out, like, ‘hey, I shouldn’t be here,’ ‘hey, I need help’… and help’s not coming,” Chronister said.

Sandra Tapfumaneyi, the Emergency Management Chief for Sarasota County, advised residents to prepare for extended periods without aid.

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