Tropical Storm Milton formed in the Gulf of Mexico on Saturday and is expected to strengthen into a hurricane as it approaches Florida’s west coast, according to the National Hurricane Center. The storm is forecast to undergo rapid intensification, potentially becoming a Category 3 hurricane by mid-week, with life-threatening impacts for communities still recovering from recent hurricanes.
As of 11 p.m. Eastern Time on Saturday, Tropical Storm Milton was located 365 miles west-northwest of Progreso, Mexico, and 860 miles west-southwest of Tampa, Florida. The storm had maximum sustained winds of 45 mph and was moving north-northeast at 5 mph. Forecasters predict it will develop into a major hurricane by Sunday night, with maximum winds of 115 mph as it nears the Florida Peninsula.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency for 35 counties, including Brevard, Broward, and Miami-Dade, to prepare for Milton’s possible landfall. Local officials are urging residents to have their hurricane plans in place, as heavy rains and flooding are expected starting Sunday. The storm could bring rainfall totals of 5 to 12 inches across Florida and the Keys, heightening the risk of flash flooding.
The Mexican government has also issued a tropical storm watch for the Yucatan Peninsula, from Celestun to Cancun, as Milton continues on its path. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has mobilized resources to assist areas recovering from the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, which made landfall just over a week ago, claiming 229 lives and leaving many communities without power.
Forecasters warn that Hurricane Milton could produce life-threatening storm surge and winds, particularly for cities like Tampa and Fort Myers, which are still reeling from recent hurricanes. The projected path of Tropical Storm Milton indicates a direct approach to the Florida Gulf Coast, with hurricane watches likely to be issued starting Sunday evening.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updates and prepare for possible evacuations as the storm develops. Tropical Storm Milton’s path could shift, affecting areas already damaged by past hurricanes. As meteorologist Jamie Rhome noted, “Regardless of where the storm tracks, it’s going to produce a large area of heavy rain and potential flooding.”
In addition to storm surge and flooding, there is a risk of tornadoes across central Florida as Milton tracks northward. Local governments are offering sandbags to residents in preparation for the storm’s impacts, and officials emphasize the importance of staying informed and ready for rapid changes in the weather.
As we brace for the storm, it’s critical to pay attention to the hurricane forecast and updates from local authorities.
Stay safe and stay informed as Tropical Storm Milton progresses.
