Hurricane Milton, a dangerous and powerful storm, has strengthened to a Category 5 hurricane and is expected to make landfall tonight, according to the National Hurricane Center. Forecasts predict the storm will hit near Sarasota between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. tomorrow. Storm surge warnings are in effect across most of Florida's western coastline, with some areas expecting floodwaters to exceed 5 feet, as reported by the National Hurricane Center Director Michael Brennan.
Tampa Sports Teams Relocate Due to Hurricane Milton
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Tampa Bay Lightning have left Florida ahead of Hurricane Milton. The Buccaneers have relocated to New Orleans, where they will continue preparations for their Sunday game against the Saints. The Lightning have moved to Raleigh, North Carolina, ahead of their season opener against the Carolina Hurricanes. Other college and professional sporting events across Florida have also been rescheduled or postponed due to the storm’s imminent arrival.
Climate Change's Role in Hurricane Milton's Rapid Intensification
Hurricane Milton rapidly escalated from a Category 1 to a Category 5 storm in a matter of hours, and experts like Bill Nye feel that this is happening due to climate change. Warmer ocean temperatures are believed to contribute to the rapid intensification of hurricanes, making them more dangerous and unpredictable.
Over 11 Million Floridians Under Hurricane Warnings
As Hurricane Milton approaches, almost all of Florida is under hurricane warnings. Evacuation orders have been issued for many coastal areas at risk of being hit by storm surge, affecting a population of approximately 11.4 million people. Coastal residents are urged to evacuate while conditions still allow.
One of the biggest dangers from Hurricane Milton is the potential for a life-threatening storm surge, which could reach up to 15 feet on Florida’s Gulf Coast. The National Hurricane Center’s Storm Surge Unit Lead, Cody Fritz, warned that the area is particularly vulnerable due to its topography. The shallow continental shelf along Florida’s western coastline makes it easier for storm surge to push water inland, threatening both coastal and inland communities.
With Florida bracing for its second major hurricane in two weeks, state and federal emergency management officials are racing to ensure they have the necessary personnel and resources in place. Despite concerns about resource availability, FEMA’s acting associate administrator, Keith Turi, has assured that the agency is well-equipped to handle the dual crises of Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene. However, some experts remain skeptical about FEMA's ability to manage concurrent disasters effectively.
Hurricane Milton Expected to Weaken Slightly Before Landfall
Meteorologists predict that Hurricane Milton will make landfall on Florida's west coast early Thursday, carrying winds of around 100 mph and causing a 15-foot storm surge. NBC News meteorologist Michelle Grossman continues to track the storm's path and its potential impact.
Tampa Sheriff Warns Residents in Evacuation Zones
Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister, whose jurisdiction includes Tampa, has issued a stark warning to residents in mandatory evacuation zones. “Those who choose to stay are on their own,” he said during an interview. He emphasized that it would be unsafe for anyone, including emergency responders, to venture outside once tropical storm-level winds arrive. With Hurricane Milton bringing winds over 100 mph, along with 10 inches of rain and a potential 10-foot storm surge, the sheriff cautioned against gambling with lives.
The storm is expected to travel from west to east across Florida. Orlando and surrounding areas could receive up to 15 inches of rain, prompting forecasters to warn of an "extreme flooding rain threat" in the region. NBC News Lite, a simplified version of the news site, has been activated for residents in Florida, North Carolina, and Tennessee, where internet connectivity may be limited during the storm.
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With inputs from agencies
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