As Hurricane Milton, now classified as a powerful Category 5 storm, approaches Florida’s west coast with winds topping 155 mph, the state is organizing what could be its largest evacuation in seven years. Landfall is anticipated on Wednesday.

Category 5 represents the highest classification for hurricanes.

Though Milton is forecasted to weaken to a robust Category 3 by landfall, its projected direct impact angle could lead to a more significant storm surge compared to a less direct hit.

The storm’s arrival comes just two weeks after Hurricane Helene struck Florida’s Gulf Coast on September 26, moving inland and causing destruction throughout Georgia and western North Carolina.

A dangerous storm surge of 8 to 12 feet is possible for Tampa and nearby coastal areas, as reported by YSL News.

In response to Milton’s approach, Kevin Guthrie, head of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, said, “We are preparing for what will likely be the largest evacuation since Hurricane Irma in 2017.”

In 2017, around 7 million people were evacuated from Florida.

The National Hurricane Center has issued hurricane watches for several parts of Florida, cautioning that some regions might face life-threatening storm surges, heavy rainfall, and damaging winds.

Rainfall from Milton is projected to reach between 5 to 10 inches in areas already drenched by the rains from Hurricane Helene, with some locations possibly receiving up to 15 inches.

Hurricane Helene is notable as the 22nd Category 4 storm to impact the U.S. since 1920, while there have only been four Category 5 hurricanes in the same time frame.