The announcement of Hurricane Milton, now a category-five storm, has sparked panic among Antiguans and Barbudans with families living in Florida.

Millions of people have already evacuated ahead of the storm’s arrival, but there are still concerns for those who remain, particularly the elderly.

Social media has been abuzz with discussions about the safety of loved ones. Milton is expected to make landfall at midnight over southern Sarasota at category three strength, with winds reaching a ferocious 145mph (233km/h).

President Joe Biden has emphasized the urgency of the situation, calling the evacuation effort the state’s largest in years.

This comes on the heels of Hurricane Helene, which struck the Gulf Coast as a category-four storm, claiming the lives of at least 225 people across multiple states.

Are you in Florida? If so, we’d like to hear from you.

Get in touch: staff@antigua.news