Janice R. Andrews
Read Time:1 Minute, 19 Second
Storm Overview
Hurricane Milton, a Category 5 storm with sustained winds of 175 mph, is rapidly approaching Florida’s west coast. The hurricane’s swift intensification from Category 1 to 5 in under 10 hours ranks it third in recorded Atlantic hurricane history for 24-hour wind speed increases.
Projected Path and Impact
- Landfall: Expected late Wednesday or early Thursday near Tampa Bay
- Strength at landfall: Likely Category 3
- Areas under hurricane watch: Tampa, Sarasota, Fort Myers, Naples, Orlando
- Storm surge predictions:
- Tampa Bay: 8-12 feet
- Fort Myers: 5-10 feet
- Naples: 4-7 feet
- Rainfall: 5-10 inches, with localized amounts up to 15 inches
State and Federal Response
- Governor Ron DeSantis coordinating state response
- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell to visit Florida
- Federal resources deployed:
- FEMA teams
- Coast Guard rescue teams
- Healthcare assessment teams
- Army Corps of Engineers power teams
- 300 ambulances and 30 high-water vehicles
Preparations and Closures
- Mandatory evacuations ordered in several coastal counties
- Schools closing in at least 20 counties
- Airports (St. Pete-Clearwater, Tampa, Orlando) announcing closures
- Debris removal from Hurricane Helene ongoing
Historical Context
Milton’s path and strength draw comparisons to 2017’s Hurricane Irma. The storm’s arrival shortly after Hurricane Helene has raised concerns about Florida’s recovery capacity.
Recommendations for Residents
- Follow evacuation orders if issued
- Secure homes and property
- Prepare disaster kits with essentials
- Stay informed through local news and National Hurricane Center updates
As Hurricane Milton approaches, Florida braces for potentially one of its most severe storms in recent years, with officials emphasizing the critical importance of immediate preparation and adherence to safety guidelines.
