US,
Hurricane Milton, now a Category 4 storm, is rapidly approaching the southeastern U.S. coastline, posing significant risks to maritime activities. Several major ports, including those in Miami, Charleston, and New Orleans, have suspended operations, and the U.S. Coast Guard has issued Condition Zulu alerts, halting vessel traffic. Shipping companies have rerouted vessels, and offshore oil platforms in the Gulf of Mexico have evacuated personnel, leading to temporary production halts. The storm’s high winds, towering waves, and storm surges are expected to cause widespread disruptions to global supply chains and coastal infrastructure.
In response, maritime authorities and industry stakeholders have activated emergency protocols to safeguard vessels, port facilities, and offshore installations. Shipping firms have adjusted routes, while port operators are securing equipment and evacuating workers to mitigate damage. The fishing and aquaculture sectors are also bracing for losses, with many coastal operations temporarily shut down. As Hurricane Milton nears landfall, the full extent of its impact on the maritime sector remains uncertain, but preparations are underway to ensure swift recovery efforts post-storm.
Jayashree Viswanathan
