CAPE CORAL, Fla. – With more than 400,000 Lee County residents under mandatory evacuation orders, even Publix has decided to close some of its doors early before Hurricane Milton arrives.

“I was kind of surprised,” said Paul Sanchez-Lewis, a man who was hoping to shop at Publix before the storm.

A feeling many people felt as they tried to get some of these last minute items before we feel the effects of Hurricane Milton.

Check out Bella’s full report below.

Businesses in Southwest Florida are closing their doors before Milton

“I thought that was the case, but I thought it might be a little later in the day,” said Curtis Himelright, another man outside a Publix in Cape Coral.

Publix stores in Southwest Florida and throughout the Tampa Bay area have modified hours. This means they will remain closed until conditions are safe to resume operations.

Along with many other restaurants and stores in the area, including the Cape Coral Chic-Fil-A, which was shuttered.

“I think this is a good way for an employer to take care of their employees,” Sanchez-Lewis said.

Walmart’s corporate website shows that stores will also be closed due to the storm.

“You should have your hurricane gear,” Sanchez-Lewis said. “People should be better prepared.”

“I started buying things in June, dry goods and things that you might need,” Himelright said. “You have no power, you have to be able to eat.”

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