The US Gulf Coast is on high alert as Hurricane Milton, a formidable storm system, advances towards Florida. With evacuation orders issued for parts of Florida’s West Coast, the state is taking every precaution to prepare for the hurricane’s potential impact.
The intensity of Hurricane Milton has taken many by surprise. Satellite imagery vividly illustrates its rapid development over the past 24 hours, with wind speeds reaching a staggering 170 miles per hour. The storm, currently classified as a Category 4 hurricane, is projected to make landfall on Wednesday night or early Thursday morning.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the hurricane’s trajectory, stating, “There’s a lot of uncertainty about what is going to happen in terms of this track. It is predicted that this will weaken, but you know, it was not predicted that it would get this strong to begin with.” Despite hopes that the hurricane might weaken, Governor DeSantis emphasized the severity of the situation, calling it a “ferocious hurricane.”
Satellite image of Hurricane Milton approaching Florida.
Coastal communities in Florida are already feeling the impact of the approaching hurricane. Residents living in vulnerable areas are diligently boarding up their homes and businesses, preparing for the worst. The mayor of Tampa has issued a stark warning to residents, stating that those who choose to stay risk losing their lives.
The aftermath of Hurricane Helen, which impacted the region just two weeks ago, serves as a stark reminder of the potential devastation hurricanes can bring. Christian Benes, reporting from St. Pete Beach for CBS News, highlighted the challenges facing communities still recovering from Hurricane Helen. Benes described mountains of debris lining the streets of St. Pete Beach, a barrier island community that was heavily impacted by storm surge during Hurricane Helen.
Mountains of debris line the streets of St. Pete Beach, Florida, in the aftermath of Hurricane Helen.
The concern among officials is that this debris could become dangerous projectiles during Hurricane Milton, posing a significant risk to life and property. Additionally, there are worries that the debris could clog storm drains, exacerbating potential flooding issues.
Storm surge is a major concern for coastal communities. Projections for Hurricane Milton indicate a potential storm surge of up to 15 feet, a level that would be catastrophic for many areas. Benes spoke to residents who are choosing to evacuate, highlighting the anxiety and uncertainty many are experiencing as they face the prospect of another major hurricane so soon after Hurricane Helen.
Residents of St. Pete Beach, Florida, prepare for the arrival of Hurricane Milton.
As Hurricane Milton continues its approach, Florida remains in a state of high alert. The coming hours will be critical as the storm’s trajectory becomes clearer and its potential impact on the state unfolds.
