As Hurricane Milton rapidly intensified into a Category 5 storm on October 7, auto dealerships across Florida’s Gulf Coast began taking crucial precautions. Although the storm weakened to a Category 4 by October 8, its sustained winds reached 175 miles per hour, prompting extensive preparation among dealerships in the Tampa Bay area, where the storm is projected to make landfall on October 9.
Morgan Auto Group, based in Tampa, announced via Facebook that it would close its BMW of Sarasota dealership at 2 p.m. on October 8. Weather permitting, it plans to reopen on October 10. Nissan of Clearwater will also close on October 8 and 9, while Toyota of Tampa Bay is set to close on October 9. Further monitoring of the situation is scheduled for that morning.
Cole Potamkin, COO of Potamkin Automotive Group, emphasized that the safety of employees is the top priority. He shared that preparations have already begun at some of the group’s stores, with staff members securing the dealership assets and moving vehicles away from flood-prone areas.
Ed Morse Automotive Group, another key player in the area, will close four Florida stores in Brandon and Tampa at 6 p.m. on October 8, three hours earlier than their regular closing time. CEO Teddy Morse explained that this additional time allows the IT team to shut down systems and prepare the dealerships for the impending storm, which he predicts will cause significant damage.
The hurricane preparations extend beyond closing stores. Morse highlighted that all eligible vehicles must be floor-planned to ensure they are insured. The company has implemented a detailed hurricane response plan, outlining responsibilities, emergency contact information, and post-storm recovery procedures. He plans to check on his dealerships after the storm’s arrival, expressing concern for staff members living near the coast.
Hurricane Milton’s approach comes less than two weeks after Hurricane Helene, which made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region as a Category 4 storm, leaving a path of destruction in its wake. In response to the devastation caused by Helene, Sonic Automotive, Hendrick Automotive Group, and others have contributed $2 million to Samaritan’s Purse to support recovery efforts.
For electric vehicle (EV) owners in the Gulf Coast region, preparations are crucial as Hurricane Milton approaches. Residents are advised not to park EVs in areas prone to standing water, as saltwater can be especially damaging. Those without garages in non-flood zones should move their EVs to higher ground well ahead of the storm. Pinellas and Hillsborough counties are offering public garage access to help keep vehicles safe.
In the event of submersion, it is essential not to attempt to drive the vehicle. Instead, contact your insurance provider and follow the manufacturer’s guidance. Remember that EVs can serve as a reliable power source for those staying home for essential appliances.
If evacuating, driving an EV poses no more risk than using a gas vehicle. Charge your car to at least 80% and plan your route, ensuring that charging stations along the way are operational. Consider bringing a portable charger with Level 1 and Level 2 attachments for additional charging flexibility.
With the potential for traffic congestion, EVs will not consume battery power while idling, a significant advantage compared to gas vehicles. However, once on the road, avoid speeding to conserve range.
As the Gulf Coast braces for Hurricane Milton, careful preparation by auto dealerships and residents alike can mitigate the impact of this powerful storm.
