Walmart U.S. President and CEO John Furner said the company is stepping up its efforts to provide assistance to Hurricane Helen victims as Hurricane Milton approaches landfall. He talked about the situation in a “special report.”
John Furner, CEO of Walmart US, said the retail store’s parking lot also serves as a space where storm victims can access needed services.
Walmart has opened up stores and Sam’s Club parking lots in Appalachia and the Southeast as charging stations since Hurricane Helen, the 14th most powerful storm in U.S. history, made landfall on Florida’s west coast late last month as a Category 4 storm. and ensured the safety of residents. Hot meals and water are available.
Furner told Fox News’ Bret Baier on “Special Report.”
Hurricane Milton: Theme parks closed, gas shortages, Walmart preparing for recovery
As the state prepares for another severe storm, Farner said, “Our parking lots have become a place of hope for many people.”
Walmart has not confirmed how many parking lots are currently being used by emergency services in Florida ahead of Hurricane Milton.
Aerial view of flooding damage caused by Hurricane Helen along the Swannanoa River in Asheville, North Carolina on October 3, 2024. (Photo courtesy of Mario Tama/Getty Images/Getty Images)
The company said it is currently working to prepare its employees for Milton’s path, including providing evacuation assistance to employees in mandatory evacuation zones.
“We are preparing our facilities for the storm and are sending additional emergency supplies and water,” Walmart said, but those preparations will wait until the storm has passed.
Florida Chief Financial Officer says damage from Hurricane Milton could reach $20 billion
Milton, now a Category 4 storm, is expected to hit Florida’s west coast on Wednesday.
On September 28, 2024, heavy rains from Hurricane Helen caused record flooding and damage in Asheville, North Carolina. (Photo by: Melissa Sue Gerrits/Getty Images/Getty Images)
The storm is expected to cause flash flooding and maximum wind speeds of 155 miles per hour, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC).
“Please make sure you are in a safe place before strong winds and flooding occur,” NHC posted on X.
| ticker | safety | last | change | change % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WMT | Walmart Co., Ltd. | 80.20 | +0.49 |
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In addition to opening up parking lots, Walmart said it is “working around the clock with local leaders and relief organizations to assess needs.”
It is also providing critical assistance to approximately 100 affected communities.
