Hurricane Milton is closing in on Florida, and it is set to make landfall tonight into early Thursday morning. This Category 5 hurricane is expected to bring devastating storm surge, destructive wind damage, catastrophic flooding, and even several tornadoes. Residents are being urged to prepare for significant threats to both life and property as Milton barrels toward the state.
As Milton moves closer, Central Florida counties are bracing for increasing threats, with severe winds, heavy rain, and flooding expected across the region. Though models are still refining the hurricane’s exact path, one thing is clear: all of Central Florida is likely to feel the impacts of this powerful storm.
Hurricane and Storm Surge Alerts in Effect
Hurricane warnings have been issued across much of central Florida, stretching from the Gulf side to the Atlantic coast. This includes major cities like Tampa Bay, Fort Myers, Orlando, Cape Canaveral, and Daytona Beach. These warnings indicate that hurricane conditions—sustained winds of 74 mph or higher—are expected in the affected areas from Wednesday evening into early Thursday.
Additionally, various tropical storm watches and warnings are in effect for other parts of Florida, as well as portions of southeast Georgia, southeast South Carolina, and southern North Carolina.
A storm surge warning has also been issued along Florida’s Gulf Coast, spanning from Flamingo northward to Yankeetown, including areas like Charlotte Harbor and Tampa Bay. Parts of the Atlantic coastline, from Sebastian Inlet, Florida, to Altamaha Sound, Georgia, are also under storm surge warnings. The St. Johns River in northeast Florida is included as well. This means life-threatening storm surge is expected late Wednesday into Thursday, putting many coastal areas at serious risk.
Timing and Intensity Forecast
As Hurricane Milton approaches Florida, gradual weakening is expected due to increasing wind shear. However, it will still likely remain a major hurricane (Category 3 or 4) when it makes landfall sometime overnight Wednesday into early Thursday.
It’s crucial not to let your guard down due to this weakening trend. The impacts from storm surges, destructive winds, and flooding rainfall will remain extremely dangerous. Milton’s size is expected to expand as it moves closer to land, meaning its effects will be felt across a broader area, even beyond its forecast cone.
Latest Status
As of 5 a.m. EDT, Hurricane Milton is still at Category 5 strength, with winds reaching up to 160 mph. The storm’s center is located 300 miles southwest of Tampa and moving northeast at 14 mph.
Already, rainfall from the storm is affecting parts of Florida ahead of its landfall, as shown in recent radar imagery. Residents in the path of the storm are urged to stay informed and prepare for the following significant impacts:
- Destructive storm surge along the western Florida Gulf Coast.
- Hurricane-force winds will impact coastal areas and extend inland through central Florida.
- Catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding from heavy rainfall.
- Tornadoes are also possible across the Florida Peninsula.
What to Expect as Milton Makes Landfall
The timing of Hurricane Milton’s arrival will vary depending on location, but hurricane conditions are expected to start impacting areas in central and western Florida by Wednesday evening. As the storm continues moving northeast, conditions will worsen through the night and into Thursday morning.
Milton’s storm surge is a particularly dangerous threat, with water levels expected to rise rapidly, potentially inundating areas along the Gulf Coast. Communities along the coast—from Flamingo to Yankeetown—could see storm surges of up to 12 feet. Inland flooding is also a major concern, with 5 to 10 inches of rainfall expected in many areas and up to 15 inches in isolated spots.
Residents in the Tampa Bay area and surrounding counties should prepare for significant flooding and potential evacuation orders. If you live in a storm surge-prone area, it is imperative to leave before roads become impassable.
Hurricane Milton’s Path: Impact on Central Florida
As Milton moves inland, central Florida will experience devastating wind and heavy rainfall. Areas including Orlando, Lakeland, and Daytona Beach are all under hurricane warnings and are expected to face severe weather as the storm pushes across the state. Strong wind gusts, sustained rains, and the threat of tornadoes will persist into Thursday.
The Atlantic coast of Florida, along with parts of Georgia and South Carolina, will also see deteriorating conditions, with storm-force winds and flooding as the storm moves further northeast. Milton will eventually exit into the Atlantic, but not before leaving a path of destruction across the Florida Peninsula.
Precautions and Preparations
Suppose you are in the path of Hurricane Milton; take all necessary precautions now. Evacuation orders are already in place for parts of the Gulf Coast, and shelters are opening up for those who need a safe place to stay. Gather essential supplies like water, food, medications, and important documents. Remember that even if the storm weakens before landfall, the effects will still be severe and potentially life-threatening.
Make sure to secure your home, bring in any outdoor items that could become projectiles in high winds, and be prepared for power outages. If you’re in an area prone to storm surge, do not wait—evacuate as soon as possible.
Residents should stay tuned to local news and weather updates from the National Hurricane Center. The situation can evolve quickly, and being informed is the best way to stay safe.
Hurricane Milton has been one of the most intense storms approaching Florida in recent years. While some weakening is expected before landfall, this does not diminish the storm’s potential for widespread devastation. From storm surge and flooding to destructive winds and tornadoes, Milton poses multiple threats to millions of people across Florida and beyond.
Stay informed, follow evacuation orders, and take all necessary steps to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property. The coming hours will be critical—now is the time to make sure you’re prepared for Hurricane Milton’s arrival. Stay safe, Florida.
