Hurricane Milton Upgrades to Category 2 Storm, Florida Prepares for Major Impact
Hurricane Milton has been upgraded to a Category 2 storm and is expected to reach Category 4 status by late Monday. Florida is preparing for potential evacuations, as the hurricane may impact 51 counties. Significant rainfall and flooding risks are anticipated, along with hazardous storm surges.
Hurricane Milton has intensified into a Category 2 storm as it moves towards Florida’s west coast, with current wind speeds reaching 85 mph as per the latest update from the National Hurricane Center (NHC). Anticipated projections indicate that the storm could escalate to a Category 4 status by late Monday night and is expected to maintain that intensity through Tuesday before potentially weakening to a Category 3 upon making landfall mid-week, specifically around 5 p.m. on Wednesday in the vicinity of Madeira Beach, Pinellas County. Governor Ron DeSantis has acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, warning that Milton may become a “major hurricane” and that the storm surge could surpass what was experienced during Hurricane Helene, which struck Florida as a Category 4 storm last September. Florida officials, led by Kevin Guthrie of the State Division of Emergency Management, are preparing for what could be the most significant evacuation since Hurricane Irma in 2017. As of now, a state of emergency has been declared across 51 counties along the west coast, and residents have been urged to secure necessary supplies, including fuel and non-perishable food. In preparation for the storm, thousands of National Guard personnel are being deployed to assist with evacuation and debris clearance, particularly from the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Furthermore, around 600 ambulances are on standby to support any emergency needs. Simultaneously, the White House has informed that President Biden is apprised of Hurricane Milton’s development and its potential impact on the Gulf Coast. The NHC has cautioned residents to devise a hurricane preparedness plan as the situation evolves. It is important to note that another weather system is currently bringing 2 to 5 inches of rain to Florida, which could exacerbate flooding risk when Hurricane Milton arrives, with projections suggesting possible rain totals exceeding 10 inches across the affected areas. Hazardous storm surges and wind damage are also anticipated along the coastline.
Hurricane Milton’s rapid intensification in the Gulf of Mexico has raised concerns among Florida officials, as the storm escalated from a Category 1 to a Category 2 hurricane in a short time frame. It is developing over warm waters conducive to hurricane formation, positioning it for potentially significant impact as it approaches land. In light of Milton’s forecasted increase in intensity, a proactive state of emergency has been declared to facilitate evacuations and readiness among emergency services. The prior experience from Hurricane Helene underlines the need for unprecedented caution, prompting authorities to urge residents to prepare.
In summary, Hurricane Milton presents a serious threat to Florida’s west coast, with expectations of severe weather and significant flooding as it approaches. The state’s response, including a massive evacuation effort and preparation of emergency resources, illustrates the urgency of the situation. Florida officials are calling on residents to take the necessary precautions in anticipation of Milton’s impending arrival.
Original Source: 6abc.com
