TAMPA, Fla. — Hurricane Milton "poses an extremely serious threat to Florida," according to the National Hurricane Center.
The storm is forecast to bring dangerous conditions, widespread damage and various power outages to Flordia and the Tampa Bay area.
TRACKING MILTON: Storm a major hurricane as it continues path toward Florida coast
Ahead of Milton's landfall, the Tampa Office of Emergency Management opened storm damage and power outages reporting access to residents throughout the region.
Residents can report power outages, downed power lines, or other safety concerns in numerous ways, including calling (877) 588-1010, on the TECO Outage Map, and texting "OUT" to 27079.
Residents can also report fallen trees, traffic light outages, street flooding, and storm debris in the right of way by calling (813) 274-3101 or using the office's Resident Damage Self-Reporting Form by clicking here.
Residents should also prepare a disaster supply kit ahead of Milton's landfall.
"One of the most important tools for emergency preparedness is your Disaster Supplies Kit," the office said. "You may have to evacuate at a moment's notice and take essentials with you. You may need to survive on your own after an emergency, which means having your own food, water and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least 72 hours. First responders and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours or it might take days. "
