Tropical Storm Milton has developed in the Gulf of Mexico, with forecasts indicating it is likely to strengthen into a major hurricane in the coming days. The storm is expected to intensify rapidly, potentially reaching Category 3 status by the time it impacts the west coast of Florida mid-week, significantly raising the threat of severe consequences for areas already affected by last month’s Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Ian in 2022.
In response to the impending storm, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency across multiple counties, including Brevard, Broward, Charlotte, Citrus, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Marion, Martin, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Sumter, and Volusia.
The National Hurricane Center has indicated that hurricane watches could be issued as early as Sunday evening. Milton is predicted to become a “potentially very impactful hurricane,” likely making landfall on the Florida peninsula on Tuesday or Wednesday. Maximum sustained winds at the time of landfall could reach up to 115 mph, placing it on the threshold of a Category 2-Category 3 hurricane.
While all hurricanes pose risks, those classified as major hurricanes (Category 3 and above) can lead to catastrophic damage and loss of life. Additionally, hurricanes of any category can result in hazardous storm surges, flooding, rain-related hazards, and tornadoes. Experts predict that winds from Milton could escalate to between 120 mph to 140 mph upon landfall, resulting in significant structural damage.
At the same time, Hurricane Kirk is expected to create swells in the Atlantic Ocean, which will affect the U.S. East Coast this weekend.
While no evacuations have yet been ordered, residents along the Florida peninsula are urged to prepare their hurricane plans and stay informed on updates. Regardless of the storm’s exact path, heavy rain and possible flooding are anticipated over a wide area. A rapid strengthening of Milton is expected, with forecasts suggesting it could be designated a hurricane by Sunday evening.
As it moves northeast after landfall, central and southern Florida could face rainfall totals of 8-12 inches, with localized areas possibly receiving up to 30 inches. The southern parts of Georgia and South Carolina may experience winds measuring between 40 mph and 60 mph.
Though Hurricane Kirk is far from the shore, its swells are expected to reach the U.S. East Coast and parts of the Bahamas this weekend, creating dangerous surf conditions and strong rip currents.
In the meantime, Hurricane Leslie, located in the eastern tropical Atlantic, is not anticipated to impact land.