Hurricane Matthew Approaches the U.S.; Obama Declares State of Emergency in Florida

Reports indicate that the devastating hurricane "Matthew" has so far left at least 339 dead in Haiti. Meanwhile, Barack Obama declared a state of emergency in Florida to facilitate relief efforts and prepare for the hurricane. According to Reuters, this powerful storm is currently moving towards southern America and the eastern coast of Florida at a speed of 220 kilometers per hour after passing through the Bahamas. The hurricane has also caused four deaths in the Dominican Republic. An NPR reporter states that the extent of the damage in Haiti is vast. Meanwhile, U.S. officials and Florida are preparing to confront "Matthew." CNN reports that hurricane "Matthew" is the deadliest storm to hit the eastern coast of Florida in the past century. Rick Scott, the governor of Florida, stated that if the hurricane directly hits the eastern coast of the state, it could cause "catastrophic" damage. According to Reuters, a mandatory evacuation order has been issued for two million people in the path of this severe storm. Rick Scott urged residents in the path of hurricane "Matthew" to consider those who have already died due to the storm if they are hesitant about leaving their homes. The governor added that they should evacuate their homes and leave the area, stressing that time is of the essence as the storm could kill them. Following the governor's orders, several thousand National Guard troops have been deployed to assist in these areas. CNN reports that hurricane "Matthew" will reach the eastern coast of Florida in the early hours of Friday. Forecasts indicate that the storm's strength will be at "Category 4" when it makes landfall in Florida. An expert from the network noted that the Bahamas has not experienced such a storm since 1935 and added that the storm is likely to directly hit the city of Melbourne in Florida with full force.