Where is Jim Cantore? Weather Channel star is in Florida ahead of Hurricane Milton

Note: The Bradenton Herald and McClatchy news sites have lifted the paywall on our websites for this developing story, providing critical information to readers. To support vital reporting such as this, please consider a digital subscription.

While all eyes are on the Hurricane Milton tracking map, we’re also keeping an eye on another crucial weather barometer: the path of Jim Cantore.

As the saying goes, it’s time to be concerned if the famous Weather Channel meteorologist shows up in your town.

Cantore has developed a reputation for being in the middle of natural disasters, and his presence can be a warning sign that a community could get the worst of a storm.

Cantore shared he was heading to Tampa on Monday, though the cone of uncertainty has Hurricane Milton’s path landing near Cedar Key toward Florida’s Big Bend region all the way to Florida’s Southwest area sometime Wednesday night.

A Facebook page called “ Tracking Jim Cantore ” is devoted to his whereabouts. Cantore was recently in Florida to report from Florida’s Big Bend when Hurricane Helene made landfall near Perry on Thursday, Sept. 26.

Milton reached Category 5 status on Monday afternoon with 160 mph winds as it heads for Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Bradenton is under a hurricane watch, storm surge watch and flood watch. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency for 54 Florida counties, including Manatee and Sarasota.

“ #Milton continues well on its way to a strengthening hurricane that will have Helene winds and maybe more at its peak,” Cantore wrote on X. “The hurricane should weaken before landfall, but push a very strong windfield with power outages well inland from west to east do to angle of approach.”

Commenters had a lot to say on Cantore’s post.

“If Jim is in Tampa then you know it will be bad. Safe travels, Jim,” one wrote.

“Tampa people, @JimCantore is heading your way. Better evacuate now,” another posted.

Sign Up for Local Breaking News