Hurricane Milton Strikes Florida approaches Florida tonight, the state braces for a major storm that poses significant risks to life and property. The hurricane is expected to bring destructive storm surge, devastating hurricane-force winds, life-threatening flash flooding, and the possibility of tornadoes.
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Key Points at a Glance:
- Landfall: Hurricane Milton Strikes Florida will make landfall in Florida tonight into early Thursday.
- Storm Surge: Life-threatening storm surge is forecast along the western Gulf Coast, with heights up to 14 feet in some areas.
- Wind Damage: Hurricane-force winds (130 mph) are expected, causing widespread destruction.
- Flooding: Catastrophic flash flooding is predicted, with rainfall totals of 6 to 18 inches.
- Tornadoes: Several tornadoes are possible, particularly in central and southern Florida.
Hurricane Milton Strikes Florida
Hurricane Milton Strikes Florida, currently a Category 4 storm, is producing sustained winds of 130 mph as it approaches Florida. At 3 p.m. EDT, Milton was located 150 miles southwest of Tampa and moving northeast at 16 mph. The storm is expected to intensify the impacts overnight, affecting central Florida through Thursday morning.
Tornado Watch in Effect
A tornado watch has been issued for the southern half of Florida, including Miami, Tampa Bay, and Fort Myers, until 9 p.m. EDT. Several tornadoes have already been reported in southern Florida this morning, with more possible as Milton nears landfall.
Wind and Rain Impact
Hurricane Milton Strikes Florida Tropical-storm-force winds have already started affecting parts of Florida‘s west coast, with gusts up to 59 mph in Key West. The storm’s strong outer bands are causing heavy rain and gusty winds, even before landfall. The National Weather Service has issued hurricane warnings for much of central Florida, including Tampa Bay, Fort Myers, and Orlando, as hurricane-force winds are expected to arrive by tonight.
Storm Surge Threat
The storm surge from Milton is expected to be devastating, particularly in the west-central Florida Gulf Coast from Boca Grande to Anna Maria Island. The National Hurricane Center forecasts a surge of 9 to 14 feet in these areas, which could coincide with high tide, making the flooding even more dangerous.
Tampa Bay and Charlotte Harbor could experience surge levels as high as 8 to 12 feet. The surge is expected to peak tonight into Thursday morning. Coastal areas south of where the storm’s center makes landfall will see the worst of the surge, which is predicted to cause significant damage and flooding.
Wind Damage and Power Outages
The most severe winds will impact areas near Milton’s center of landfall. These hurricane-force winds are likely to down trees, cause widespread power outages, and damage structures. Wind damage will spread eastward across central Florida into Orlando and Cape Canaveral, and power outages may persist for several days in these regions.
Flash Flooding and Heavy Rainfall
The heavy rainfall from Milton is forecast to cause catastrophic flash flooding across central and northern Florida. Some areas could receive 6 to 12 inches of rain, with localized totals reaching up to 18 inches. The Weather Prediction Center has issued a high-risk flood threat for parts of central Florida, including Tampa Bay and Orlando, where flooding could be life-threatening.
Tornado Threat
The risk of tornadoes continues throughout Wednesday and Wednesday night, particularly in the central and southern parts of the Florida Peninsula. Tornadoes, some potentially strong (EF2 or greater), are a serious concern as Milton moves closer to landfall. The tornado threat may persist into Thursday, especially in east-central Florida.
Timeline of Impacts
- Tonight into Early Thursday: Landfall expected in central Florida, with hurricane-force winds, storm surge, and flash flooding intensifying.
- Thursday: Strong winds and rain continue to spread through central and northern Florida, with the potential for localized tornadoes.
Hurricane Milton Strikes Florida Rapid Intensification
Milton rapidly intensified after forming as Tropical Depression Fourteen on October 5. It became a tropical storm shortly after and reached hurricane status within 24 hours. Milton underwent even more rapid intensification, reaching 180 mph winds by October 7, placing it among the strongest Atlantic hurricanes on record.
Its pressure dropped to 897 millibars, the lowest observed in any Atlantic hurricane since Hurricane Wilma in 2005, and the fifth-lowest pressure on record for any Atlantic storm.
Stay Safe: What to Do Now
As Hurricane Milton Strikes Florida moves closer, residents in its path should take immediate action to protect life and property:
- Follow Evacuation Orders: If you’re in an evacuation zone, leave now.
- Prepare for Flooding: Move valuables to higher ground and ensure sandbags are in place.
- Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in patio furniture, decorations, and anything that could become a projectile in strong winds.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with updates from the National Weather Service and local authorities.
For live updates on Hurricane Milton Strikes Florida path and impacts, follow The Weather Channel or sign up for the Morning Brief email newsletter.
Conclusion: A Serious Threat to Florida
Hurricane Milton Strikes Florida is forecast to be one of the most destructive storms to hit Florida in recent years. With life-threatening storm surge, destructive winds, catastrophic flooding, and tornado threats, residents should remain vigilant and prepared. Do not underestimate the power of this hurricane—even as it weakens, its impacts will still be severe. Stay informed and stay safe.
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