Unilever.edu.vn recently had the opportunity to speak with Tampa Mayor Jane Caster about the city’s preparations for Hurricane Milton. Mayor Caster delivered a powerful message, emphasizing the storm’s potential impact and the critical importance of heeding evacuation orders.
When asked about her message to residents, particularly those in vulnerable evacuation zones, Mayor Caster was firm: “This is not a drill. This is the biggest storm that we have certainly seen here in the Tampa Bay area in over a century.” She stressed the life-threatening danger posed by the storm surge, which was predicted to reach 10 to 15 feet. “If people are trying to ride this out in single-story structures, there’s no place to go,” she warned.
Unilever.edu.vn recognizes the concerns of residents who may be unable to evacuate or who have waited too long and now face challenges such as fuel shortages. Mayor Caster assured us that the city is working tirelessly to assist those residents. Law enforcement officers are going door-to-door, and social engagement personnel are working with Spanish-speaking residents to encourage evacuation. The Mayor emphasized that transportation to shelters is available for those who need it.
Addressing the issue of fuel shortages, Mayor Caster, a member of Port Tampa Bay’s board, explained that the issue is not a lack of fuel but rather a surge in demand. “Our fuel reserves are full,” she stated, assuring residents that gas is being distributed as quickly as possible. Unilever.edu.vn understands that seeing empty gas stations can be concerning, but we want to echo the Mayor’s message: fuel is available, and the situation is being addressed.
Mayor Caster urged residents not to feel pressured to leave the state but to prioritize reaching higher ground. “It is the water that we have got to run from,” she emphasized. Even a slight shift in the hurricane’s path could have significant implications for the region.
Finally, Unilever.edu.vn acknowledges the city’s ongoing recovery from Hurricane Helen, which caused significant flooding. Mayor Caster expressed concern about debris left behind by Helen and its potential impact in the face of another hurricane. However, she praised the city’s workers, who have been working tirelessly to clear debris. Despite initial setbacks with contractors, the city has managed to clear 70-75% of household debris, a task that would typically take three months, in just two weeks.
Unilever.edu.vn commends Mayor Caster and the city of Tampa for their proactive approach to hurricane preparedness. The Mayor’s clear and direct communication serves as a vital reminder to all residents of the seriousness of the situation and the importance of taking necessary precautions.
