Hurricane Milton strengthened into a dangerously powerful hurricane on a path toward Florida population centers, threatening a 12-foot storm surge in Tampa Bay and setting the stage for potential mass evacuations less than two weeks after a catastrophic Hurricane Helene swamped the coastline.

In areas where people are being ordered to leave as Florida braces for Hurricane Milton, those incarcerated in jails have no choice but to stay.

Check your evacuation zone. If Pinellas evacuates up to zone C on Monday, it will be the largest evacuation of the county since 2022′s Hurricane Ian. Even if you think you’re safe, check your zone on the Florida Department of Emergency Management website.