Tampa Free Press Hurricane Updates Hurricane Milton continues to intensify, according to the latest satellite images, showing a more defined eye a
Hurricane Milton continues to intensify, according to the latest satellite images, showing a more defined eye and a powerful eyewall.
The Air Force Hurricane Hunter aircraft recently recorded a pressure drop to 911 mb—77 mb lower than 24 hours prior—along with data supporting wind speeds of 150 knots (173 mph).
Given the current satellite imagery, the storm’s wind speed has been updated to 155 knots (178 mph). Another pair of Hurricane Hunters will gather additional data later this evening to provide further updates.
Read: Mandatory Evacuations Ordered For Pinellas County As Hurricane Milton Nears
Current Movement and Forecast: Hurricane Milton is currently moving eastward at approximately 9 knots (10 mph). The storm is expected to approach the northern part of the Yucatan Peninsula late tonight and into Tuesday morning.
Milton will then move northeastward at a faster pace due to a mid-level trough influencing the storm’s path. The latest model forecasts remain consistent, with the storm set to track towards Florida’s west coast, with potential landfall Wednesday.
Potential Strengthening and Eyewall Changes: Milton could strengthen further tonight as it encounters minimal wind shear and extremely warm waters, creating ideal conditions for intensification. However, radar data suggests that Milton might be entering an eyewall replacement cycle, which could gradually weaken the storm by Tuesday but cause it to grow in size.
By Wednesday, unfavorable conditions such as increased wind shear and dry air are likely to cause further weakening. Nevertheless, Milton is expected to remain a large and powerful hurricane at landfall, posing significant threats to both the coastline and inland areas of Florida.
Read: Pasco County Expands Mandatory Evacuations To Zone C, Opens Additional Shelter
Key Messages:
- Life-threatening Winds and Storm Surge in Yucatan: Damaging hurricane-force winds and a life-threatening storm surge, along with destructive waves, are anticipated along the northern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula tonight.
- Florida’s West Coast at Risk: As Milton approaches Florida’s west coast on Wednesday, it is expected to remain an extremely dangerous hurricane, with a vast area of destructive storm surge along the coastline. This situation poses extreme life-threatening risks, and residents should heed local evacuation orders immediately.
- Hurricane Warnings for Florida: Potentially devastating hurricane-force winds are forecast for parts of Florida’s west coast, where hurricane warnings are in place. Milton is expected to remain a hurricane as it crosses the Florida Peninsula, with life-threatening gusts spreading across a wide area. Residents should complete all necessary storm preparations by Tuesday night, as tropical storm conditions are expected to begin early Wednesday.
- Heavy Rainfall and Flooding Risks: Florida will begin experiencing heavy rainfall well ahead of Milton’s arrival, with the heaviest rain expected between Tuesday and Wednesday night. This could lead to flash flooding, urban flooding, and moderate to major river flooding in some areas.
With Milton poised to become one of the most destructive hurricanes on record for west-central Florida, residents are urged to stay informed and prepared, following all guidance from emergency management officials.
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