Hurricane Milton Update: Tracking the Storm’s Path and Impact on Florida
As Hurricane Milton continues its approach, Florida remains in high alert with major concerns over its potential landfall and impact. Residents in affected areas, including Tampa, Orlando, Sarasota, Fort Myers, and Miami, are closely monitoring updates from reliable sources like the National Hurricane Center (NHC), NOAA Hurricane Tracker, and local news stations such as WESH 2, WINK News, and Bay News 9.
Current Status of Hurricane Milton
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As of the latest 5 AM update from the National Hurricane Center, Hurricane Milton remains a Category 4 storm with sustained winds reaching catastrophic levels. The storm’s current trajectory shows that Milton is expected to make landfall somewhere along Florida’s west coast, but Tampa, Sarasota, and Naples are projected to be directly in the path.
Meteorologists have expressed concern over the storm surge, which could cause major flooding in low-lying areas like Tampa Bay, Longboat Key, and Siesta Key. Polk County, Lee County, and Manatee County have also issued mandatory evacuation orders for vulnerable areas.
Where Will Milton Make Landfall?
There’s still some uncertainty over Milton’s exact landfall location. Current spaghetti models from NOAA show a possible landfall between Fort Myers and Tampa Bay. The storm tracker suggests that the storm could veer slightly north or south, but areas like Sarasota, Bonita Springs, and Port Charlotte remain at high risk.
Florida Prepares for Impact
Residents from Orlando to Jacksonville and down to Miami are bracing for the storm's impact. Orlando, though inland, could still experience heavy rain and strong winds. The Orlando International Airport and Fort Lauderdale Airport have announced possible closures as the storm draws nearer.
Florida cities, including Gainesville and Lakeland, are also making preparations. Aquafences are being deployed in flood-prone areas such as Tampa General Hospital to prevent water damage from the anticipated storm surge.
Comparing Hurricane Milton to Past Storms
Some are comparing Hurricane Milton’s strength to that of Hurricane Katrina, raising concerns about whether Milton might reach Category 5 status. However, the National Hurricane Center has yet to confirm if it will strengthen further. With wind speeds already nearing 150 mph, Milton has the potential to become one of the strongest hurricanes to hit Florida in recent years.
Latest Evacuation Zones and Storm Safety
Residents in coastal regions, including Punta Gorda, Anna Maria Island, and Brevard County, are urged to evacuate immediately if they’re in mandatory evacuation zones. Orlando and Tampa Bay residents are also advised to prepare for possible power outages and flooding.
For those staying behind, local authorities have issued safety protocols, recommending that people secure their homes, stock up on supplies, and avoid driving during the peak of the storm.
How to Track Hurricane Milton
Stay updated with live coverage from FOX Weather Live, The Weather Channel, and WESH 2 News for the latest forecasts. You can also follow the NOAA Hurricane Tracker and National Hurricane Center’s spaghetti models to monitor the storm’s changing path. Webcams across Tampa Bay and Sarasota are providing real-time footage of the approaching hurricane.
Stay Safe
As the path of Hurricane Milton evolves, Florida residents should remain vigilant. Stay tuned for live updates, evacuation notices, and storm surge warnings, especially if you live in high-risk areas like Naples, Bonita Springs, and Fort Lauderdale.
For the most current information, visit NOAA, NHC, or your local news stations. Be prepared and stay safe during Hurricane Milton.
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