Georgia braces for Milton as Kemp extends emergency measures

In the United States, Hurricane Milton made landfall in Florida on October 9, 2024, as a Category 3 storm, prompting significant concern in southeastern Georgia. In response to the impending threat, Governor Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency for 38 counties in Georgia that could be impacted by the storm. Additionally, he extended the state of emergency for 50 counties still recovering from the previous Hurricane Helene, allowing for continued support and resources for those affected. The governor's actions included maintaining a statewide moratorium on the gas tax, which was initially set to expire on the same day as the storm's landfall. This decision aims to alleviate financial burdens on residents during the emergency period. The Georgia Department of Transportation also took measures to facilitate traffic flow, opening Peach Pass lanes for northbound travel on I-75 to assist those evacuating from Florida. As Hurricane Milton approached, it was reported that the storm was growing in size and already producing heavy rain and strong winds. The National Weather Service issued numerous tornado warnings in Florida, indicating the storm's potential for severe weather impacts. The Atlantic hurricane season, which runs until November 30, continues to pose risks for the southeastern United States, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by communities in the region as they deal with the aftermath of recent storms and prepare for future threats.