Hurricane Milton, which had rapidly intensified in the Gulf of Mexico, is now barreling toward Florida’s west coast, bringing with it warnings of strong winds, dangerous storm surges, and potential flooding. As weather experts monitor the storm’s progress, it is expected to make landfall late Wednesday or early Thursday. The National Hurricane Center has advised residents in the storm’s path to take immediate action, as Milton is expected to be a powerful and dangerous hurricane when it strikes.
Initially categorized as a Category 5 hurricane, Milton was downgraded to a Category 4 storm early Wednesday morning, according to the Associated Press. Despite the downgrade, the storm remains a serious threat to the Tampa Bay area, which is home to 3.3 million people and has not faced a major hurricane in over a century. The region has been placed on high alert, with residents being urged to evacuate ahead of Milton’s arrival. The area is still reeling from the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, which hit Florida just two weeks earlier.
CBS News reports that Milton is expected to make landfall near Sarasota, Florida, around 2 a.m. Thursday, with winds at the lower end of Category 4 status, ranging between 130 and 156 mph. Initially projected to strike the Tampa Bay area directly, the storm’s path has shifted southward, with Sarasota now expected to face the brunt of the impact. Residents in evacuation zones are being advised to complete all necessary preparations immediately.
Evacuations have been ordered for the Tampa Bay area and other regions of Florida in anticipation of Milton’s arrival. Airports have canceled flights, and schools in several counties, including Miami-Dade, Broward, and Monroe, have closed. Tampa Mayor Jane Castor issued a dire warning to those considering staying behind in evacuation zones, stating bluntly, “If you choose to stay in one of those evacuation areas, you are going to die.” President Joe Biden has also urged residents in the storm’s path to heed local officials’ warnings and evacuate without delay.
As residents race to find safety, many are encountering challenges such as increased traffic and crowded evacuation routes. Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency in 51 of Florida’s 67 counties, emphasizing that the effects of Hurricane Milton will extend far beyond its immediate path. “You have time today,” DeSantis warned on Tuesday. “But time will be running out very shortly if you wait any longer.” With evacuation efforts in full swing, officials are urging Floridians to stay informed and follow all emergency guidelines.
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