An evacuation center is now open in Columbus, as Floridians in the path of Hurricane Milton head for higher ground. In anticipation of the strong storm, Columbus Parks and Recreation in partnership with the Red Cross is operating a shelter for evacuees seeking higher ground.

Hurricane Milton, which re-strengthened to a Category 5 hurricane Tuesday afternoon, is taking aim at Florida's west coast. Landfall is expected late Wednesday night as a Category 3 hurricane.Milton is closing in as Floridians are still recovering from the devastation unleashed by Hurricane Helene.

Hurricane Milton regained Category 5 strength Tuesday as it barreled across the Gulf of Mexico toward the Florida Peninsula, where millions scrambled to wrap up storm preparations and evacuate vulnerable areas.