The storm is expected to make landfall on Florida’s Gulf Coast on Wednesday.
Hurricane Milton, now a Category 5 storm, is rapidly intensifying and is expected to make landfall on Florida’s Gulf Coast on Wednesday, bringing with it devastating winds and storm surges. The hurricane has grown explosively, with wind speeds increasing by about 90 mph in just 25 hours. Forecasters have warned that Milton could be one of the most destructive hurricanes ever recorded for west-central Florida.
The storm is set to affect a large area, including communities around Tampa Bay, with predictions of up to 15 feet of storm surge. While the storm’s central winds may weaken slightly before landfall, the storm’s size will still pose a significant threat. Heavy rainfall began on Monday evening and is expected to intensify, contributing to widespread flooding.
The rapid intensification of Milton is attributed to record-high sea temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico, which provided an ideal environment for the storm to gain strength quickly. “It’s an incredible, incredible, incredible hurricane,” said John Morales, a hurricane specialist for NBC 6 South Florida, visibly shaken by the storm’s power.
As the storm nears, several closures have been announced. The Tampa Bay International Airport will halt all flights by 9 a.m. local time, and schools across more than 20 counties, including the University of Florida, have canceled classes. Widespread mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for areas like Lee, Hillsborough, and Sarasota counties.
In response to the growing threat, President Joe Biden issued an emergency declaration for Florida, mobilizing FEMA to coordinate disaster relief and response efforts. Local authorities continue to urge residents to evacuate, as Milton’s impact is expected to be catastrophic.