The highly anticipated Tennessee-Florida football game is approaching, but Florida fans may face significant travel challenges due to Hurricane Milton and the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. With Milton, a Category 4 hurricane nearing Category 5, expected to hit Florida’s west-central coast on Oct. 9, many wonder if fans will be able to make it to Neyland Stadium for the Oct. 12 matchup in Knoxville.
Milton is predicted to make landfall near the Tampa and Sarasota areas, and although Gainesville, home of the University of Florida, lies slightly northwest of the projected path, the storm’s impact could hinder travel plans. Evacuation orders have already been issued, and major highways like I-75 North, I-4 East, and I-10 West were congested with slow-moving traffic as of Oct. 8. Additionally, fuel shortages and long lines at gas stations are expected to affect fans driving to the game.
Fortunately, Hurricane Helene, which caused catastrophic flooding in East Tennessee on Sept. 27, is not expected to impact routes like I-75 for those traveling from Florida to Knoxville. However, drivers should monitor real-time traffic updates on FL511.com for the latest conditions in Florida.
Flight disruptions could also impact fans traveling to Knoxville. Major airports near Gainesville, such as Orlando International (MCO), Orlando Sanford (SFB), Jacksonville International (JAX), and St. Pete-Clearwater International (PIE), offer direct flights to Knoxville, but Hurricane Milton is expected to cause flight cancellations starting Oct. 8. Orlando International and Sanford will suspend operations on Oct. 9, and St. Pete-Clearwater will close from Oct. 8 through Oct. 10. Travelers should check with their airlines for up-to-date flight statuses.
Despite the storm, the Florida Gators are still scheduled to travel to Knoxville on Oct. 11, with the game against Tennessee set for Oct. 12 at 7 p.m. on ESPN. The Vols, currently ranked No. 9, won the last home game against Florida in September 2022, 38-33.
