Nearly 1,500 Florida Gas Stations Run Out of Fuel, Hurricane Milton Threatens More Trouble
As Hurricane Milton edges closer to Florida, the state is already reeling from an unprecedented fuel shortage that has left nearly 1,500 gas stations without gasoline. This shortage, exacerbated by panic buying and logistical challenges, threatens to worsen as the powerful hurricane looms, forcing residents to scramble for resources while officials brace for widespread disruptions.
1. Growing Fuel Crisis Across Florida
The fuel shortage sweeping across Florida is one of the most severe in recent years, with gas stations across the state reporting dry pumps. The shortage has primarily affected urban centers such as Miami, Tampa, and Orlando, but smaller towns have not been spared. Motorists have been left frustrated as lines grow longer at gas stations that still have fuel, with many turning away empty-handed after hours of waiting.
According to the Florida Department of Emergency Management, the fuel shortage is due to several factors, including increased demand caused by residents rushing to prepare for Hurricane Milton and disruptions in fuel deliveries. Many residents have been stocking up on fuel for their cars and generators, fearing that the approaching hurricane could bring widespread power outages.
The state’s fuel distribution network has been under immense pressure to keep up with demand, with tankers working around the clock to resupply stations. However, officials have warned that the situation could deteriorate further as Hurricane Milton approaches, potentially cutting off major supply routes.
2. Panic Buying Intensifies the Crisis
Panic buying has only worsened the already strained fuel supply. In cities like Jacksonville and Fort Lauderdale, residents have rushed to fill their tanks in preparation for the hurricane, depleting gas stations of their reserves. Some stations have resorted to imposing limits on fuel purchases, but this has done little to alleviate the growing anxiety among the public.
Fuel station owners have described the situation as chaotic, with many stations running out of gas within hours of receiving new shipments. “We’ve been trying to keep up with the demand, but it’s impossible,” said one station owner in Miami. “People are buying more than they need, and that’s making the shortage worse for everyone.”
The Florida government has urged residents to remain calm and avoid unnecessary stockpiling of fuel, stressing that efforts are underway to increase fuel shipments to the state. However, with Hurricane Milton rapidly approaching, it remains unclear if these measures will be enough to meet the soaring demand.
3. Hurricane Milton Threatens to Worsen Shortage
Hurricane Milton, now a Category 4 storm, is expected to make landfall along Florida’s Gulf Coast in the coming days. With winds exceeding 140 miles per hour and heavy rainfall forecasted, the hurricane could severely disrupt fuel supply lines, making it even harder to get gasoline to affected areas.
Experts warn that flooding, road closures, and power outages caused by the hurricane could prevent fuel deliveries for days or even weeks. Additionally, refineries along the Gulf Coast may need to shut down temporarily, further tightening the supply of gasoline not just in Florida, but across the southeastern United States.
“Fuel shortages are always a concern during hurricane season, but the combination of panic buying and an approaching storm like Milton is a perfect storm,” said a spokesperson from the American Petroleum Institute. “We’re working closely with federal and state authorities to ensure that fuel supply disruptions are minimized, but people need to understand that the situation could get worse before it gets better.”
4. Florida Residents Prepare for Hurricane Milton’s Impact
As the fuel shortage intensifies, Florida residents are scrambling to prepare for Hurricane Milton in any way they can. Along with fuel, other essential supplies such as bottled water, batteries, and canned goods are flying off the shelves, leaving many stores with empty aisles.
Shelters have been opened across the state, and local governments are urging residents in low-lying areas to evacuate. Emergency services are also on high alert, with rescue teams and medical personnel preparing for what could be one of the most destructive hurricanes to hit Florida in recent years.
Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency and mobilized the National Guard to assist with relief efforts. “This is a serious storm, and we’re doing everything we can to make sure Florida is prepared,” said DeSantis in a press conference. “We ask everyone to stay safe, stay informed, and follow evacuation orders if necessary.”
5. Potential Economic Impact of Fuel Shortage and Hurricane
The dual threat of a fuel shortage and a major hurricane could have a significant economic impact on Florida, a state heavily reliant on tourism, agriculture, and logistics. With gas stations running dry, businesses that depend on transportation are already feeling the effects, and if the shortage persists, it could disrupt supply chains across the state.
Experts are also concerned about the long-term consequences for the state’s tourism industry, particularly if Hurricane Milton caused extensive damage to hotels, beaches, and other attractions. “The immediate priority is to ensure people’s safety, but we also have to think about the economic fallout from this,” said a spokesperson from Florida’s Chamber of Commerce.
If the fuel shortage and hurricane damage are severe, it could take weeks or even months for the state’s economy to recover fully. State officials are working to mitigate these risks, but with Hurricane Milton’s impact still unknown, the future remains uncertain.
6. Federal Response and Support
In response to the fuel shortage and Hurricane Milton’s impending arrival, the federal government has pledged support to help Florida weather the crisis. The U.S. Department of Energy is considering tapping into the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to help alleviate the state’s fuel shortage, while FEMA has begun deploying resources to assist with hurricane relief efforts.
President Joe Biden has also issued a statement urging Floridians to take all necessary precautions and follow local authorities’ guidance. “The federal government stands ready to assist Florida in any way possible as it prepares for and responds to Hurricane Milton,” said Biden.
With both federal and state resources mobilized Florida is bracing for the impact of what could be a devastating combination of a fuel shortage and a major hurricane.