Gas stations in Florida are experiencing a shortage of gasoline as residents prepare for Hurricane Milton. The demand for gas has surged as some residents try to fuel up before evacuating, while others are filling gas tanks to prepare for potential power outages. GasBuddy reported that 14.5% of gas stations in the state were without fuel, a significant increase from just 3% the day before. In areas facing mandatory evacuation orders, such as Fort Myers, 70% of gas stations were without gas.
The situation is exacerbated by panic buying and drivers topping off their tanks, leading to shortages. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis reassured residents that the state is working to bring emergency supplies of gasoline to stations that have run out. The state’s reserves include 110,000 gallons of gasoline and 268,000 gallons of diesel fuel, with more fuel currently in transit to the state. Fuel trucks are being escorted by the Florida Highway Patrol to ensure deliveries to stations in the storm’s impact area.
Once the storm passes, issues with gasoline supply could persist if there is damage to the Port of Tampa, a critical entry point for gasoline supplies in the state. The port is currently closed due to the storm, but it has fuel at its terminals and is operating ahead of the storm. However, reopening to tankers and barges may take some time as the Coast Guard checks for debris in the channel. The fear is that the hurricane and storm surge could cause significant damage to the port, impacting fuel supply in the state.
Gasoline market experts emphasize the importance of the Port of Tampa for fuel supply in Florida, with much of the state dependent on waterborne supply. If there is damage to the port, alternative arrangements will need to be made to ensure fuel continues to arrive in the state. While the port is currently operational, the potential for significant damage from the storm exists, prompting state officials to prepare for potential interruptions in fuel delivery.
The Governor reassured residents that there is no fuel shortage in the state, despite the challenges posed by the storm. However, with gas stations running out of fuel quickly due to increased demand, efforts are underway to ensure that emergency supplies reach affected areas. The state is dispatching fuel to stations as needed and continues to receive shipments of gasoline and diesel fuel. It remains to be seen how quickly the Port of Tampa can reopen after the storm passes, and the extent of potential damage to critical fuel infrastructure in the state.
