(VitalNews.org) – At a time when America is still reeling from Hurricane Helene’s devastation, Hurricane Milton is headed toward Florida’s Gulf Coast, threatening to unleash destruction on the Tampa Bay area.
Hurricane Milton has rapidly intensified, now reaching maximum sustained winds of 160 mph.
This Category 5 monster is on track to make landfall near Tampa Bay by early Thursday, bringing with it a potentially catastrophic combination of wind, rain and storm surge that could reshape the coastline.
…MILTON RAPIDLY INTENSIFIES INTO A CATEGORY 5 HURRICANE…
Data from an Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunter aircraft indicate that Milton has strengthened to a category 5. The max sustained winds are estimated to be 160 mph with higher gusts. https://t.co/dv1LkCViaN pic.twitter.com/zUwi2CNJhi
— National Hurricane Center (@NWSNHC) October 7, 2024
The National Weather Service is sounding the alarm due to “catastrophic wind damage” in coastal Gulf counties.
Life-threatening storm surges of 8-12 feet are expected, particularly in the Tampa Bay area, threatening to flood coastal communities and wash away homes and businesses.
Governor Ron DeSantis has issued emergency declarations for 51 counties, emphasizing the critical need for early evacuation.
Taking swift action to protect Floridians, Governor DeSantis has mobilized up to 4,000 National Guard troops to assist with preparations.
“Have a plan, execute the plan,” DeSantis told the news conference. “You certainly can leave now. You don’t have to wait to get an evacuation order.”
Milton’s unusual westward approach to Florida, a rare occurrence since 1850, has meteorologists on high alert.
The unique path and record-warm waters in the Gulf of Mexico are helping the storm to intensify quickly.
As Floridians prepare for what could be a historic evacuation, Florida’s preparedness, including enabling emergency fuel and charging stations along evacuation routes, showcases the effectiveness of local and state-level disaster management.
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