As Hurricane Milton approaches the Gulf Coast, NBC News correspondent Tom Llamas has been on the front lines, reporting live from Sarasota, Florida. In a dramatic update, Llamas urged viewers to take the storm seriously, exclaiming, “We must leave now!” The urgency in his voice reflected the escalating threat posed by the hurricane, which has rapidly intensified and is expected to make landfall within hours.

The Situation Unfolds

Hurricane Milton, classified as a Category 4 storm, has been gaining strength as it moves across the Gulf of Mexico. With sustained winds exceeding 130 mph and a dangerous storm surge anticipated, officials have issued mandatory evacuation orders for coastal areas and low-lying regions. Llamas, stationed in Sarasota, has been tirelessly covering the storm’s progression, providing real-time updates to viewers about the dire situation.

During his latest broadcast, Llamas highlighted the importance of heeding evacuation orders. “This is not a drill,” he stressed, as the winds began to pick up and the rain started to pour. He reported that local authorities were working diligently to ensure that residents had the information and resources necessary to evacuate safely.

Reporting from the Ground

As Llamas took shelter in a designated safe location, he painted a vivid picture of the conditions outside. The sounds of howling winds and the sight of heavy rain lashing against windows underscored the severity of Hurricane Milton. He conveyed the sense of urgency felt by residents as they hurried to gather their belongings and leave.

Llamas also took the time to interview local officials and emergency responders, who emphasized the importance of preparedness. They reiterated that while many storms may weaken or change course, the unpredictability of hurricanes makes it imperative to act swiftly. “We’re here to protect lives,” one official stated, urging everyone to prioritize safety above all else.

Community Response

The response from the Sarasota community has been a blend of concern and resilience. Residents have mobilized to help one another, offering rides to those in need and sharing resources to ensure that everyone has a plan in place. Local shelters have opened their doors, providing refuge for those who could not evacuate in time.

In his report, Llamas expressed admiration for the community’s spirit, noting the solidarity among residents as they face this crisis together. However, he also cautioned that time was running out, and decisions needed to be made quickly. “Every minute counts,” he urged, as the storm drew closer.

The Broader Impact

Hurricane Milton is expected to impact not only Sarasota but also surrounding areas along the Gulf Coast. Meteorologists have warned of potential flooding, power outages, and widespread damage. The storm’s trajectory has raised alarms in other parts of Florida and neighboring states, prompting officials to prepare for possible evacuations and emergency responses.

As Llamas continued his coverage, he underscored the importance of staying informed through reliable news sources and official channels. “Don’t wait for the last minute,” he advised viewers, encouraging everyone to have an emergency plan and supplies ready.

Conclusion

As Hurricane Milton approaches, the urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. Tom Llamas’ impassioned plea to “leave now” serves as a critical reminder of the dangers posed by hurricanes and the importance of preparedness. With lives at stake, the responsibility to act falls on both individuals and communities.

The coming hours will be pivotal as Hurricane Milton makes landfall, and the nation watches closely, hoping for the safety of all those in its path. As Llamas and his team continue to report from the ground, their dedication to informing and protecting the public is evident, highlighting the vital role of journalism in times of crisis.