Hurricane Milton Upgraded to Category 2: Preparations Underway for Impact on Florida’s West Coast
Hurricane Milton has intensified into a Category 2 storm and is expected to become a Category 4 hurricane by Monday night, potentially making landfall in Pinellas County as a Category 3. Florida officials are preparing for the largest evacuation since Hurricane Irma, with widespread state emergency declarations and extensive preparations underway.
Hurricane Milton has rapidly intensified as it moves through the Gulf of Mexico, now classified as a Category 2 storm with winds reaching 85 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. The storm is expected to escalate further, potentially reaching Category 4 status by late Monday night and will likely make landfall as a Category 3 hurricane in the Madeira Beach area of Pinellas County around 5 p.m. on Wednesday. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has indicated that, given Milton’s trajectory and power, the storm is anticipated to be a significant threat, potentially leading to widespread evacuations. He noted that the storm surge associated with Milton might exceed the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, which struck north Florida in September, resulting in substantial fatalities. Preparations for potential evacuations have been underway for the past fortnight, as officials brace for what may be the largest evacuation since Hurricane Irma in 2017. Governor DeSantis declared a state of emergency for 51 counties, emphasizing the importance of residents replenishing supplies and making necessary preparations. To assist with these efforts, approximately 4,000 National Guard members are being mobilized, alongside 600 ambulances on standby, with an aim to clear debris left by Hurricane Helene. President Biden has been briefed on Hurricane Milton, and FEMA is actively coordinating to position essential resources in anticipation of the storm. With another system currently dropping 2 to 5 inches of rain across Florida, there is heightened concern regarding flooding, as total rainfall may exceed 10 inches by the time Milton departs. The National Hurricane Center is urging all residents along Florida’s west coast to devise a hurricane preparedness plan and remain vigilant in monitoring the evolving storm forecast. This situation calls for both cautious awareness and proactive action in mitigating potential impacts as Hurricane Milton approaches the Gulf Coast.
Hurricane Milton has developed in the Gulf of Mexico and is expected to affect Florida’s west coast significantly. Category upgrades in hurricane classifications underscore the increasing strength and potential impact of the storm. The state is revisiting evacuation protocols due to concerns over storm surge and flooding, particularly following the devastation caused by recent hurricanes, such as Hurricane Irma in 2017 and Hurricane Helene. The National Hurricane Center is closely monitoring the storm’s progression, while local and federal authorities are collaborating to ensure preparedness and public safety.
In sum, Hurricane Milton poses a serious threat to Florida’s west coast, with projections indicating significant strengthening before landfall. Governor Ron DeSantis has taken proactive steps, including declaring states of emergency and mobilizing the National Guard, highlighting the urgency of preparedness efforts. The public is urged to stay informed and equip themselves adequately as the storm approaches, with a clear focus on mitigating risks related to potential evacuation and flooding issues.
Original Source: 6abc.com
