Tropical Storm Milton is expected to intensify into a Category 3 hurricane before hitting Florida on Wednesday, with wind speeds potentially reaching 120 mph. Increased rainfall poses risks of flooding, and a state of emergency has been declared across 35 counties. The hurricane season remains notably active, with several systems being monitored in the Atlantic.
On Sunday, the National Hurricane Center issued dire warnings regarding Tropical Storm Milton, which is intensifying and is forecasted to reach Florida as a Category 3 hurricane by Wednesday. Jack Beven, a senior hurricane specialist, highlighted that “steady to rapid strengthening is forecast during the next few days,” as Milton transitions from a tropical storm to a hurricane and potentially a major hurricane while traversing the central and eastern Gulf of Mexico. Currently, Milton is about 860 miles west-southwest of Tampa, maintaining sustained winds of 60 mph as it advances eastward at 5 mph, with tropical-storm-force winds reaching 35 miles outwards. The hurricane center emphasized an increasing risk of “life-threatening impacts” along Florida’s west coast. Data gathered from an NOAA Hurricane Hunter aircraft confirmed a rise in intensity since earlier reports, reflecting the storm’s escalating strength. The forecast indicates that Milton could achieve hurricane status by Sunday night or early Monday, with projections suggesting sustained winds of 120 mph and gusts up to 150 mph by Tuesday night. Bevan warned, “the regional hurricane models continue to be quite aggressive in intensifying Milton,” suggesting the possibility for upward revisions in strength forecasts as the storm continues to develop. A tropical storm watch has been issued from Celestun to Cancun, Mexico, and potential hurricane and storm surge watches may soon follow for portions of Florida. Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency in 35 counties, including Tampa Bay, ensuring preparedness for the impending weather conditions. Heavy rainfall, with projections reaching 12 inches in some areas, is anticipated, creating risks of flash floods and river flooding across the Florida Peninsula. The region had just faced severe damages from Hurricane Helene a mere ten days prior, compounding the concern for additional impacts from Milton. In parallel, the hurricane center is monitoring Hurricane Kirk and Hurricane Leslie in the Atlantic, indicating an unusually active hurricane season. As of now, there have been 13 named storms, including eight hurricanes, highlighting this season’s intensity, which remains crucial given the season’s duration spanning from June 1 to November 30.
The Atlantic hurricane season of 2024 has taken a notable turn with the emergence of multiple storms, particularly Tropical Storm Milton. The National Hurricane Center has observed conditions conducive to the intensification of Milton as it approaches Florida. With previous storms causing significant damage, the preparedness and warnings issued for Milton reflect an urgent requirement for public awareness and safety. Additionally, as meteorologists track other hurricanes, such as Kirk and Leslie, the overall activity in the Atlantic aligns with predictions of an “extremely active” hurricane season, a noteworthy aspect being discussed by forecasters and emergency management officials alike.
In summary, Tropical Storm Milton is poised to become a major hurricane as it approaches Florida, with increasing winds and substantial rainfall expected to lead to life-threatening conditions. Emergency declarations in advance of the storm aim to mitigate the impacts on the coastline. As the season progresses with heightened activity, vigilance and readiness remain essential for residents in impacted areas.
Original Source: www.tampabay.com
