Florida will distribute millions of gallons of free gasoline after Hurricane Milton hit the Sunshine State, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Saturday.
Fuel is already being distributed at three locations, the governor said, adding that more locations will open later Saturday, including at the Port of Tampa. Politico reported.
The news comes after DeSantis faced criticism for fuel shortages as Florida was hit by two storms in a matter of weeks, causing local residents to line up for fuel. The first Hurricane Helen made landfall on September 26th.
De Santis said residents in need can get up to 10 gallons of fuel for free from designated distribution centers already set up in Plant City, Bradenton and St. Petersburg. Additional locations could be built in Tampa, Sarasota, and a third location in Pinellas County, the news site reported.
Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie said the benefits are aimed at people who are “in economic need” and that those who can afford to buy gas will continue to receive it because it is a faster option. He said he should go to a gas station.
Nearly one-third of Florida gas stations were out of fuel by Friday afternoon, the newspaper reported, citing fuel tracking site GasBuddy.
State troopers were sent to escort tanker trucks to distribute gasoline, and dozens of distribution sites were established in 14 counties to deliver meals, water, ice and tarps to local residents.
Guthrie said he expects the federal government to approve several programs aimed at helping local residents build new homes or renovate their current homes.
“We just want to make sure people have what they need,” the governor told media at a fuel depot set up in Plant City.
A Category 5 Milton storm hit the state's Gulf Coast on Wednesday, bringing with it dozens of tornadoes, torrential rain and high-speed winds. All of this resulted in power outages for more than 4 million people and at least 17 deaths.
More than 1.5 million people still did not have power restored as of midday Saturday, according to a state report.
