Hurricane Milton has rapidly intensified into a powerful Category 4 storm with 150 mph winds, posing a major threat to Florida’s Gulf Coast, including densely populated areas like Tampa and Orlando. The storm is forecast to make landfall in the Tampa Bay region on Wednesday, bringing with it the danger of a life-threatening storm surge and potentially triggering mass evacuations.
This comes less than two weeks after Hurricane Helene caused widespread devastation across the Southeast, raising concerns about the cumulative impact of these back-to-back storms. While Milton’s projected path would spare most of the areas hardest hit by Helene, the potential for major damage and disruption in central Florida is high.
Previous Reporting: Hurricane Milton Strengthens, Watches And Warnings Issued For Florida And Mexico
The storm surge in Tampa Bay is a particular concern, as rising waters could inundate low-lying areas and cause significant flooding. Officials are urging residents to prepare for potential evacuations and heed any warnings issued by local authorities.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has already declared a state of emergency for much of the state and mobilized resources to prepare for Milton’s impact. Residents are being urged to finalize their hurricane plans, secure necessary supplies, and stay informed about the storm’s progress.
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