Category 5 Hurricane Milton now with 180 mph winds, could get even stronger
By Brantly Keiek,
2 days ago
NEW ORLEANS ( WGNO ) — Milton has rapidly intensified into a powerful Category 5 hurricane with winds of 180 mph.
The National Hurricane Center says it could become one of the most destructive hurricanes to ever impact Florida’s west coast.
Dangerous Storm Heads Toward Florida
Milton is moving eastward at about 10 mph and is expected to shift to a northeast direction, accelerating its forward speed on Tuesday and Wednesday. Forecast models have been very consistent with the projected path, with landfall still likely near the Tampa Bay Area.
Conditions remain favorable for further intensification tonight due to light wind shear and warm waters. However, radar data suggest that Milton may be starting an eyewall replacement cycle, a process that often leads to short-term weakening but causes the storm to grow larger.
Slight Weakening Possible Before Landfall
By Wednesday, Milton is expected to encounter less favorable conditions, with wind shear and dry air potentially leading to some weakening. Despite this, Milton is projected to make landfall in Florida as a large and dangerous hurricane, likely as a high-end Category 3 or Category 4, posing life-threatening risks to both coastal and inland areas.
Residents in Florida are strongly urged to follow guidance from local emergency officials, as Milton could become one of the most destructive hurricanes to ever impact west-central Florida.
Storm Surge
Milton is expected to grow in size and remain an extremely dangerous hurricane as it nears Florida’s west coast on Wednesday. Destructive storm surges will impact the area, with 10 to 15 feet of water above ground level possible in the Tampa Bay Area.
Devastating Winds
Milton is forecast to bring hurricane-force winds to Florida’s west coast, where a Hurricane Warning is already in effect. As the storm moves across the state, these dangerous winds could spread far inland.
Preparations to safeguard life and property should be finalized by Tuesday night, as tropical storm conditions are expected to arrive early Wednesday.
Heavy Rainfall and Flooding
Heavy rainfall will begin affecting parts of Florida ahead of Milton, with more intense rain expected from Tuesday through Wednesday night. This rainfall will elevate the risk of flash flooding, urban flooding, and river flooding, with some areas likely experiencing moderate to major flooding.
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