Jordanian Embassy in Washington releases statement concerning Hurricane Milton

The Jordanian Embassy in Washington issued a safety advisory for Jordanian citizens living in areas impacted by Hurricane Milton, urging them to take all necessary precautions and follow local authorities' safety guidelines.

Citizens are advised to contact the embassy’s emergency line at 202-294-9522 in emergencies.

Described as “extremely dangerous,” Hurricane Milton landed on Florida’s Gulf Coast late Wednesday evening, bringing fierce winds and torrential rains that have triggered flash floods across the region. The storm, which hit just two weeks after the devastating Hurricane Helen, has left residents facing an increasingly dire situation.

According to the US National Hurricane Center, Milton struck near Siesta Key in Sarasota County as a Category 3 hurricane, with sustained winds of up to 205 km/h. The densely populated region, located along Florida’s western coast, is bracing for severe damage as local officials warn of life-threatening tornadoes, floods, and massive storm surges.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has urged residents to take shelter, stating, "The storm has arrived. It’s time for everyone to hunker down." He warned that it was too late for evacuations and stressed that people should stay indoors and avoid traveling, as floodwaters and high waves pose significant risks.

With sea levels expected to rise to four meters, forecasters fear major devastation along Florida’s western shoreline. The storm's high winds have already caused widespread damage, uprooting trees, shattering windows, and flooding streets.

In Sarasota, tornadoes have left streets deserted and glass littering the sidewalks. Buildings have been boarded up, with some residents leaving messages like "Be kind to us, Milton."

Major airports in Tampa and Sarasota have been shut down until further notice, adding to the travel disruptions caused by the storm.

Milton’s path is projected to continue inland, eventually reaching the Atlantic Ocean. The storm is expected to pass over Orlando, home to popular tourist destinations such as Walt Disney World, before heading out to sea.

This latest hurricane, coming so soon after Hurricane Helen, left Florida and the southeastern US grappling with back-to-back natural disasters, increasing the strain on local communities.

For Jordanian citizens in the affected areas, the embassy continues to monitor the situation closely, offering assistance where needed.