Hurricane Milton, while slightly weaker than earlier today, is still poised to bring devastating impacts to Florida’s west coast. The storm, now a high-end Category 2 hurricane with sustained winds of 105 mph, is expected to make landfall near Tampa Bay this evening.
Radar images and data from Hurricane Hunter aircraft show that Milton has been weakened by wind shear, with the eye open on the south side and the heaviest rain located north of the center. However, the storm has grown in size, increasing the area at risk for damaging winds and storm surge.
READ: Florida Highway Patrol Rescues Abandoned Dog Tied To Pole Amid Hurricane Evacuation
Landfall Expected Near Tampa Bay
Forecasters predict that Milton will slow down and turn more to the right, bringing the center near or just south of Tampa Bay later this evening. The storm will then cross central Florida, emerging over the western Atlantic Ocean tomorrow.
Significant Impacts Expected
Despite the slight weakening, Milton remains a major threat.
- Storm Surge: A destructive storm surge of 10 feet or more is possible along portions of the west-central Florida coast. The surge will be accompanied by damaging waves, and water levels are expected to rise rapidly as the eye approaches.
- Hurricane-Force Winds: Devastating winds are expected along the west coast of Florida, with hurricane-force gusts spreading inland across the peninsula.
- Tornadoes: The risk of tornadoes continues across southern and central Florida.
- Heavy Rainfall: Catastrophic flash and urban flooding, along with river flooding, are possible due to heavy rainfall across the Florida Peninsula.
READ: Tampa Shores Neighborhood Cleared Of Hurricane Helene Debris Ahead Of Milton
Urgent Preparations Needed
Residents in the affected areas are urged to complete their hurricane preparations immediately.
“This is still a very dangerous storm,” warned the National Hurricane Center. “Even though it has weakened slightly, the impacts will be significant. Everyone in the path of Milton should take this threat seriously.”
Key Safety Messages:
- Evacuate immediately if ordered to do so.
- Take shelter in an interior room away from windows as the storm approaches.
- Be prepared for power outages and potential damage.
- Heed all warnings and instructions from local officials.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Android Users: Download our free app to stay up-to-date on the latest news.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.