After Hurricane Milton passed through Florida, the state experienced significant gas shortages at hundreds of gas stations, with around half in the Tampa area affected. This led to long lines at the remaining functional gas stations, with reports of fights breaking out due to limited fuel availability. However, relief is on the way with gas-carrying vessels expected to reach Tampa in the coming days, leading to a decrease in the number of gas stations without fuel. Despite this improvement, experts predict that it may still take several more days for the situation to fully normalize.
As of Monday afternoon, 17.3% of Florida’s gas stations were still without fuel, down from 33.2% the previous day. This improvement signifies progress, but over 1,300 gas stations in the state remain dry in the aftermath of the hurricane. In the Tampa metro area, nearly half of the gas stations were still without fuel on Monday, although this number has significantly decreased from the previous day. Florida heavily relies on Port Tampa Bay for fuel deliveries, with more than 43% of the state’s fuel passing through this critical infrastructure.
The reopening of Port Tampa Bay after the hurricane has been slower than expected, leading to delays in fuel deliveries. Additionally, some fuel terminals near the port have not reopened yet, limiting the amount of fuel they can receive for distribution. As a result, millions of gallons of fuel meant for Tampa gas stations are stuck on vessels waiting for unloading. Analysts hope that these issues will be resolved by the end of the week, allowing fuel distribution to return to normal levels.
Anxious drivers in the Tampa area are facing long lines at remaining gas stations, leading to tensions and even fights breaking out. The Pasco Sheriff’s Office received numerous calls regarding disputes at gas stations in the area, urging residents to remain patient and respectful. Governor Ron DeSantis highlighted efforts to ensure fuel supplies reach areas in need, including providing highway patrol escorts for fuel tanker trucks and opening public fuel sites where customers can receive free gas. However, these sites have been crowded and overwhelmed, with long waiting times reported.
The increased demand for gas following Hurricane Milton highlights the vulnerability of the region to supply disruptions and spikes in demand. The reliance on just-in-time inventory systems in the Tampa area means that disruptions can quickly lead to shortages and chaos. Despite these challenges, experts believe that the situation will improve in the coming days as gas deliveries are expected to increase. Once Port Tampa Bay fully reopens and fuel distribution resumes at normal levels, the region is expected to return to a more stable fuel supply.
