TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Florida’s major roadways are getting backed up as people are trying to evacuate the Tampa Bay area before Hurricane Milton arrives.

All of our local counties have put evacuation orders in place, with varying degrees of severity, as people prepare for possibly catastrophic storm surge and damaging winds.

On I-4 heading toward Orlando, vehicles were packed as they attempted to flee the area, with some drivers using the emergency shoulder as a travel lane.

Meanwhile, a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office helicopter caught sight of a massive traffic jam on I-75 between Morris Bridge and Bruce B. Downs.

Heavy traffic was also reported on I-275 northbound into Pasco County, which slowed down travelers.

“We urge drivers to drive safely and expect extended delays,” the sheriff’s office said.

Monday morning, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced that tolls on state roads would be suspended in west and central Florida as well as Alligator Alley to assist evacuations.