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Hurricane Milton Update as of 11:00 AM: Florida Braces for Life-Threatening Surge, Winds, and Tornadoes
October 9, 2024 – Florida remains on high alert as Hurricane Milton, a Category 4 storm, continues its approach towards the state. As of 11 a.m. EDT, Milton is packing sustained winds of up to 145 mph, with its center located 190 miles southwest of Tampa. The storm is moving northeast at 16 mph, and landfall is expected later tonight.
01
of 06Early Impacts Already Being Felt
Bands of heavy rain from Hurricane Milton have already started affecting parts of Florida well ahead of its landfall. Key West has reported wind gusts of up to 59 mph, with rainfall increasing across the southern parts of the state. The National Weather Service has warned residents that conditions will rapidly worsen throughout the day as the hurricane approaches.
02
of 06Tornado Watch Issued
A tornado watch is in effect for the southern half of the Florida Peninsula until 9 p.m. EDT today. This includes major cities like Miami, Tampa Bay, and Fort Myers, all of which are under threat from both the hurricane and potential tornadoes. Residents in these areas are advised to stay alert and follow all safety precautions issued by local authorities.
#Tornado on the ground in rural Broward west of Weston and I-75. #HurricaneMilton pic.twitter.com/7hiIfWFzKe
— WSVN 7 News (@wsvn) October 9, 2024
03
of 06Hurricane Milton’s Forecast
Milton’s track is expected to take it through central Florida, with landfall anticipated late tonight or early Thursday. While the storm has weakened slightly from its earlier peak, it remains an extremely dangerous hurricane. The combination of deadly storm surges, destructive winds, and flooding poses significant risks to life and property.
Hurricane warnings remain in effect for much of central Florida, including the Tampa Bay area, Fort Myers, Orlando, and Cape Canaveral. These regions are expected to experience hurricane-force winds, torrential rain, and potentially life-threatening flooding in the coming hours.
04
of 06Storm Surge and Flooding Risks
One of the most dangerous aspects of Hurricane Milton is the anticipated storm surge along Florida’s Gulf Coast. Forecasts predict a surge of 8 to 15 feet in some areas, including Tampa Bay and Charlotte Harbor. This surge, coupled with high tide, could lead to widespread flooding in coastal communities. Officials are urging residents in these vulnerable areas to evacuate if ordered.
The 2024 Atlantic #hurricane season has now generated 127 ACE (Accumulated Cyclone Energy), officially meeting NOAA's definition of an above-normal season:https://t.co/r177mJdm29#Milton #Leslie
— Philip Klotzbach (@philklotzbach) October 9, 2024
ACE is integrated metric accounting for storm frequency, intensity & duration pic.twitter.com/gl2Ct2496o
05
of 06Preparation and Evacuation
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has stressed the importance of completing all evacuation efforts and storm preparations immediately. “This is a life-threatening situation,” he warned in a press conference earlier today. Residents who remain in the path of Hurricane Milton are urged to stay indoors, away from windows, and follow all official instructions.
06
of 06Looking Ahead
Hurricane Milton is expected to cause widespread damage across Florida, with power outages, road closures, and significant disruption to transportation expected in its wake. Those in the storm’s path should prepare for extended periods without electricity and ensure they have enough supplies to last several days.
For the latest updates on Hurricane Milton and safety advisories, stay tuned to Unitedpac St. Lucia News. This update is based on information from Weather.com, citing meteorologists Jonathan Belles, Chris Dolce, Caitlin Kaiser, and Sara Tonks. Further updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.
