A jail in Florida has decided not to evacuate its 1,200 inmates, even though it is in the dangerous path of Hurricane Milton.
In Florida, a jail is making headlines for its decision not to evacuate its inmates as Hurricane Milton approaches.
This hurricane is expected to bring severe damage, and many areas in Florida are under evacuation orders.
However, Manatee County Jail has stated that it will keep its 1,200 inmates inside, despite the risks.
Hurricane Milton is a powerful storm that has already raised concerns among officials and residents.
The hurricane is forecasted to bring strong winds and heavy rain, which could lead to flooding.
On October 9, the storm is expected to make landfall, with Florida being one of the worst-hit states.
Local leaders have urged people in danger zones to leave their homes and seek safety.
Tampa’s mayor, Jane Castor, has been vocal about the danger posed by Hurricane Milton.
She warned that this storm could be catastrophic. “If you choose to stay in one of those evacuation areas, you are going to die,” she stated firmly.
Her warning highlights the seriousness of the situation and the need for residents to evacuate.
“I can tell you right now, that they may have done that with others but there has never been one like this,” she said.
Experts have noted that Hurricane Milton is exceptionally strong, with winds reaching up to 180 mph.
This intensity has led some scientists to discuss the possibility of creating a new category for hurricanes.
Current categories go up to five, but storms like Milton may exceed these limits in the future as climate change continues to impact weather patterns.
Florida jail will not evacuate its inmates despite being in Hurricane Milton dangerous zone
A deputy who works at the jail mentioned that the facility is located in an evacuation zone.
Manatee County has issued mandatory evacuation orders for Zones A and B, where the threat is highest.
However, jail officials believe that the facility has not flooded in the past and are not planning to move the inmates.
“We do not issue evacuation orders lightly,” they stated.
Public Safety Director Jodie Fiske explained that they do not take evacuation orders lightly.
She noted that Hurricane Milton could cause more damage than previous storms, including Hurricane Helene.
“If you stayed during Helene and got lucky, I would not press my luck with this particular system,” she said.
This statement reflects the high level of concern for safety in the region.
Florida jail preparedness plans during Hurricane Milton
Even though the jail is in a dangerous area, the staff plans to remain inside during the storm.
They have stocked up on supplies and sandbags to prepare for potential flooding.
If water levels rise, the plan is to move inmates to the top floor of the building. This precaution aims to keep everyone safe if flooding occurs.
Social media users shared mixed opinions on the jail’s decision
The decision not to evacuate the jail has sparked debates about the safety of the inmates.
Many people believe that all individuals, including those in custody, should be protected during severe weather events.
Critics argue that keeping inmates in a potentially dangerous situation is irresponsible.
Regardless, they’re still human beings and just let them there to be destroyed. What are we? One user said.
Honestly, I’d chill in a jail during a severe hurricane. That place isn’t falling down and you get to enjoy a nice nap with the stormy weather, the second user said.
This is absolutely not okay. They’re people too. Both inmates and officers need to be able to get to safety, the third user commented.
Harsh outcome for those that did lesser crimes. Punishment should fit the crime, another wrote.
For those saying they did the crime.
My father worked for a prison and he was never given options to leave or stay. Not everyone is there is guilt of something. Still praying for everyone, someone said.