TAMPA BAY, Fla. – As recovery efforts begin following Hurricane Milton, several key bridges across Tampa Bay have reopened to traffic:
- Sunshine Skyway Bridge: OPEN
- Howard Frankland Bridge: OPEN
- Gandy Bridge: OPEN
- Courtney Campbell Causeway: OPEN
READ: Tampa Assessing Hurricane Milton Damage, Restricted Access In Place For Safety
While these reopenings signal a return to normalcy, authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution. Road conditions may still be hazardous due to debris, flooding, and potential power outages.
Motorists are encouraged to check for updates on road conditions and closures before traveling. Stay informed and prioritize safety as the region recovers from Hurricane Milton.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: A major exodus is underway as Hurricane Milton churns towards Florida’s west coast, prompting authorities to close key bridges across Tampa Bay. The Sunshine Skyway Bridge, Howard Frankland Bridge, and westbound lanes of the Gandy and Courtney Campbell bridges are now closed to all traffic.
This comes as heavy traffic clogs northbound and eastbound roadways, with residents heeding evacuation orders and fleeing the potential path of the storm. To assist with the evacuation, Emergency Shoulder Use (ESU) has been activated on I-75 and I-4, allowing vehicles to use the inside shoulder.
“For those wishing to evacuate, the time is now,” authorities urge. “Otherwise, finalize your storm preparations immediately.”
READ: Category 4 Hurricane Milton On Collision Course With Florida: Landfall Imminent
Florida Highway Patrol troopers are working tirelessly, escorting fuel tankers to ensure gas stations remain supplied and assisting with debris removal.
The closures come as sustained winds approach 45 mph, making driving conditions increasingly dangerous. Motorists should be prepared for the possibility of all four bridges closing as Hurricane Milton intensifies.
Officials stress the importance of remaining calm, driving safely, and heeding all warnings from state, county, and local authorities. With the storm’s impact imminent, every minute counts in ensuring safety and preparedness.
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