A DRIVER who lost her home and car to Hurricane Helene says she was left fighting through “war zone” rental shops to try and evacuate before Hurricane Milton hit.
The “catastrophic” storm made landfall last night, leaving millions without power and causing widespread flooding.
Hurricanes Helene and Milton have left a trail of destruction across the south-eastern US[/caption]
The first two deaths have already been confirmed in St Lucie County, Florida and more than 120 homes have been destroyed.
Milton is battering communities still reeling from the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene last week, which left billions of dollars in damage in its wake.
Tampa Bay resident Vicki Donohue was one of the millions scrambling to get out of Florida as Milton approached.
Vicki, 67, lost her house and car to the storm, leaving her trapped in the state unless she could get a rental car.
As Helene swept the Bay, she found herself standing in the dark with water rising above her shoulders as she and her son took turns sitting on the narrow kitchen counter.
She told the Tampa Bay Times: “It’s the most scared I’ve ever been.
“I can’t live through that again.
“I’m going to Atlanta to stay with my son.
“I just need a car. Please, I just need a car.”
Vicki recalled that her entire neighbourhood had been devastated, with debris littered across the street, while all her possessions had been washed away.
In desperation, she made her way to the local Enterprise rental shop to try and get hold of a vehicle to make the trip to safety.
Panic set in when the attendant told her that stock was low due to an understandable rush to get out of the area.
Millions have hit Floridian roads this week under mandatory evacuation orders.
What should I do if I’m caught in a flood?
By Jacob Jaffa, Motors Reporter
If you fear that your area is about to be flooded, government advice is to turn off your gas and electricity where safe to do so and move to higher ground.
During a flood, try and stay at the highest point possible and keep exits clear in case you need to escape rising water.
Do not touch any electrical sockets or devices when standing in water.
It is also strongly advised that you do not attempt to use flooded roads as you could be left stranded – remember the water may be deeper than it looks.
If your home is flooded you can apply to your local council for temporary accommodation until it becomes habitable again.
Gas stations have run dry across the state as drivers scramble to get out.
Officials have even waived $1,000 fines for emergency shoulder use to speed up the flow of traffic.
Thankfully, Vicki was able to get herself a car and get going on her escape.
