Hurricane Milton rapidly intensified in the Gulf of Mexico on Monday, heading towards US’ Florida with the potential to become a Category 5 storm. Less than two weeks after Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc along the coastline, Florida is bracing for more devastation, particularly in the Tampa Bay area, which is facing a dangerous storm surge, as reported by the Associated Press.
Milton, a Category 4 hurricane as of Monday morning, had sustained winds of 155 mph (250 kph), according to the National Hurricane Center. Forecasters expect it to strengthen further, with winds exceeding 157 mph (250 kph) by Monday evening, making it a Category 5 storm. The storm’s path is set to hit the Tampa Bay area on Wednesday, possibly maintaining hurricane strength as it crosses central Florida towards the Atlantic.
“This is the real deal here with Milton,” said Tampa Mayor Jane Castor at a news conference. “If you want to take on Mother Nature, she wins 100% of the time.”
Florida’s west coast, including Tampa Bay, is under hurricane and storm surge watches, with forecasters predicting an 8- to 12-foot (2.4 to 3.6 meters) surge. Rainfall between 5 and 10 inches (13 to 25 centimetres) could trigger flash flooding, with some areas potentially receiving as much as 15 inches (38 centimetres).
The region is still recovering from Hurricane Helene, which claimed 12 lives and caused severe damage along a 20-mile stretch from St. Petersburg to Clearwater. Governor Ron DeSantis urged quick clean-up efforts to clear debris left by Helene ahead of Milton’s arrival, warning that it could turn into dangerous flying projectiles. “We don’t have time for bureaucracy and red tape,” DeSantis said. “We have to get the job done.”
Evacuations have already been ordered for Hillsborough County, which includes Tampa, especially for areas near Tampa Bay and mobile home residents. Sheriff Chad Chronister stressed the importance of heeding evacuation orders. “If you safeguard your families, you will be alive,” he said. Hillsborough Fire Rescue Chief Jason Dougherty added, “If you remain there, you could die, and my men and women could die trying to rescue you.”
Florida officials are preparing for what could be the largest evacuation since Hurricane Irma in 2017. Emergency fuel stations are being set up along evacuation routes, and tolls have been suspended in western central Florida. Schools in affected areas have closed, and many are being converted into shelters. Tampa International Airport and St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport plan to halt flights by Tuesday.
People are readily stockpiling essentials and preparing for possible extended power outages. The storm’s full impact is expected to be felt midweek as it tracks across central Florida.