Biden speaks with Florida governor on storm recovery

WASHINGTON

US President Joe Biden said he spoke Monday with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Tampa Mayor Jane Castor on recovery efforts for Hurricane Helene.

"My Administration is ready to support both leaders and the people of Florida with any further resources they may need," Biden said on X.

Helene made landfall on Florida's Gulf Coast late last Thursday, leaving at least 19 dead and affecting parts of the state.

Biden said he also spoke with National Weather Service Director Ken Graham on the expected impact of Hurricane Milton on Florida, which is forecast to make landfall in the state on Wednesday.

"I urge all those in the storm’s path to evacuate now while it is safe to do so," he added.

Hurricane Milton strengthened to a Category 5 storm Monday, with the National Hurricane Center warning that the hurricane poses an "extremely serious risk" to Florida.

Biden approved an emergency declaration for Florida on Monday and authorized the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to coordinate disaster relief.

As Florida officials have issued evacuation orders for residents, DeSantis warned communities to take the orders seriously.

"Time is going to start running out very, very soon," he said at a news conference.