Tropical Storm Milton is rapidly intensifying and is expected to become a major hurricane within three days, setting its sights on Florida’s west coast. The National Hurricane Center has warned that the storm could bring life-threatening hazards to the area north and south of Tampa Bay, a region still recovering from the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene just weeks ago.
Milton’s Rapid Development
As of early Sunday morning, Tropical Storm Milton was located 365 miles west-northwest of Progreso, Mexico, and 855 miles west-southwest of Tampa, Florida. It was moving north-northeast at 4 mph with maximum sustained winds of 45 mph. However, the storm is expected to strengthen rapidly, with forecasters predicting it will reach hurricane status by Sunday night, and Category 3 hurricane status—sustained winds of at least 111 mph—within 72 hours.
The storm’s path remains somewhat uncertain, but current projections indicate it will impact Pinellas County, the Tampa Bay area, and other coastal regions of Florida as soon as Wednesday evening.
Unusually Warm Waters Fueling the Storm
One of the factors contributing to Milton’s explosive growth is the unusually warm water in the Gulf of Mexico. A buoy near the storm’s projected path recorded a water temperature of nearly 86 degrees, which is 2 degrees warmer than the air. These warm waters are fueling the storm’s rapid development, making it a significant threat.
Potential Impact on Florida
Hurricane Watches and State of Emergency
Governor Ron DeSantis has already declared a state of emergency for 35 counties along Florida’s west coast, including Pinellas County, as the storm approaches. The National Hurricane Center has indicated that hurricane and storm surge watches will likely be issued for parts of the state as soon as Sunday.
Tropical Storm Milton is expected to bring:
Heavy rain: Expected to begin impacting parts of the state on Sunday and Monday, with heavier rains moving in by Tuesday and Wednesday. Rainfall amounts could reach 5 to 8 inches, with up to a foot in some areas, leading to flash flooding and river flooding.
Storm surge: Life-threatening storm surges are anticipated, particularly along the west coast, which could push the Gulf of Mexico onto otherwise dry land.
High winds: Winds of 111 mph or more as it reaches Category 3 status.
Helene’s Recent Devastation Lingers
Florida’s west coast, including Pinellas County, is still recovering from Hurricane Helene, which made landfall less than 10 days ago. Helene caused significant damage, including flooding and storm surges that killed 12 people in Pinellas County alone. Milton’s arrival poses yet another potential disaster for the region.
Rare Storm Path
One aspect making Milton stand out is its unusual origin and path. Forming in the Bay of Campeche, this marks only the third time in recorded history that a storm from this region is expected to strike Florida, with the last such occurrence over 155 years ago in 1867.
What to Expect
Rainfall and Flooding
Heavy rainfall will impact Florida’s west coast ahead of the storm’s arrival. Rain bands could begin as early as Sunday, with heavier rain expected Tuesday and Wednesday. Federal forecasters are predicting rainfall amounts of 5 to 8 inches, with localized amounts up to 12 inches in some regions, heightening the risk of flash flooding.
Preparing for Milton
With the storm approaching, residents in the Tampa Bay region and surrounding areas are urged to make necessary preparations:
Stock up on food, water, and medicine.
Ensure vehicles are fueled, and cellphones are fully charged.
Have enough cash on hand in case of disruptions to payment systems.
Follow local authorities’ advice on evacuations and safety measures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When is Tropical Storm Milton expected to become a hurricane?
Tropical Storm Milton is expected to reach hurricane status by Sunday night and become a Category 3 hurricane within 72 hours.
2. Which areas will be most affected by Tropical Storm Milton?
The storm is currently projected to impact Florida’s west coast, especially areas near Tampa Bay and Pinellas County.
3. How much rain is expected from Tropical Storm Milton?
Rainfall of 5 to 8 inches is expected across the Florida Peninsula, with some areas receiving up to 12 inches.
4. What is the storm surge risk for Florida?
The storm is expected to bring life-threatening storm surges along the west coast, potentially pushing the Gulf of Mexico inland.
5. Is this storm similar to Hurricane Helene?
While Milton is not the same storm, it poses similar risks of flooding, storm surge, and high winds for areas still recovering from Hurricane Helene.
6. What should residents do to prepare?
Residents should ensure they have an emergency plan, including enough food, water, and medicine for several days, and follow any guidance from local officials.
7. Why is M
ilton considered a rare storm?
Milton is taking an unusual path, originating from the Bay of Campeche. Only two other storms from this region have hit Florida, with the last one recorded in 1867.
Conclusion
Tropical Storm Milton is shaping up to be a significant threat to Florida’s west coast. With rapid intensification expected, residents must stay informed and prepared for life-threatening hazards, including storm surge, flooding, and high winds.
