As Hurricane Milton, now a Category 4 storm, barrels towards Florida’s Gulf Coast, residents are bracing for significant weather impacts. Milton’s rapid intensification, driven by warm Gulf waters, has spurred widespread preparations nationwide. Here are the latest Hurricane Milton updates, including its expected landfall, Milton storm forecast, and essential hurricane safety tips for those in its path.
Milton Storm Forecast: Where Will It Hit?
Hurricane Milton is projected to make landfall near the Tampa Bay area on Wednesday, potentially as a Category 3 storm. While it’s expected to weaken slightly before landfall, the Milton hurricane news warns of dangerous conditions, including high winds, torrential rainfall, and a life-threatening storm surge. Storm surges could reach up to 12 feet from Tampa Bay to the Anclote River, with coastal flooding of 7 to 10 feet possible in areas like Charlotte Harbor and Bonita Beach.
Meteorologists caution that Milton’s perpendicular approach to the coast could intensify the storm surge, posing significant danger to densely populated areas. Rainfall is predicted to range between 5 and 15 inches, with flash floods and river flooding becoming major concerns along Florida’s Gulf and Atlantic coasts.
Hurricane Milton Impact: What Florida Can Expect
The Hurricane Milton impact will be felt long before its eye reaches Florida. South Florida, already dealing with unrelated heavy rains, faces an even higher flood risk as Milton approaches. Broward, Miami-Dade, and Monroe counties are under flood watch, with expected 4 to 7 inches of rain expected.
Further north, the Tampa Bay area—recently hit hard by Hurricane Helene—is bracing for another round of flooding, storm surge, and wind damage. According to the National Hurricane Center, communities still recovering from prior storms are at heightened risk due to Milton’s compact but powerful wind field. Winds peaked at 150 mph, making the storm particularly dangerous. Residents are urged to take necessary precautions.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency in 51 counties and deployed 8,000 National Guard troops to assist with preparations and recovery efforts.
Hurricane Safety Tips: How to Stay Safe During Milton
With Milton storm preparedness in full swing, now is the time to ensure your safety plan is in place. Whether you’re in an evacuation zone or staying put, consider these hurricane safety tips:
- Evacuate if instructed: Know your local evacuation routes and listen to official guidance. Some regions have already issued mandatory evacuations.
- Stock up on essentials: Ensure you have at least a week’s supply of non-perishable food, water, medications, and batteries.
- Prepare your home: Secure outdoor furniture, cover windows with plywood or shutters, and move valuable items to higher ground in a flood-prone area.
- Stay informed: Monitor local news and official weather updates for any changes in the Milton hurricane news or evacuation orders.
Once the storm has passed and recovery efforts are underway, you may start planning future travel plans.
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