Hurricane Milton - Oct 6 - Evening

Hurricane Milton Advisory

Issued: 10:00 PM CDT, Sunday, October 6, 2024

Overview

Hurricane Milton is rapidly strengthening over the Gulf of Mexico and is expected to become a major hurricane by Monday. Residents along the Gulf Coast, especially in Florida, should prepare for significant impacts, including life-threatening storm surge, heavy rainfall, and damaging winds.

Current Status

Location: Approximately 230 miles west-northwest of Progreso, Mexico, and about 765 miles west-southwest of Tampa, Florida.

Coordinates: Latitude 22.4° North, Longitude 93.1° West

Movement: East at 7 mph

Maximum Sustained Winds: 90 mph (Category 1 hurricane)

Minimum Central Pressure: 977 millibars

Forecast Track

Milton is expected to continue moving eastward on Monday, then turn northeastward with increased speed on Tuesday and Wednesday. The hurricane is forecast to:

Move just north of the Yucatán Peninsula on Monday and Tuesday.

Approach the west coast of Florida by Wednesday.

Please Note: Forecast tracks can change. Do not focus solely on the exact path; effects can extend far from the storm's center.

Intensity Forecast

Strengthening: Milton is forecast to intensify rapidly, becoming a major hurricane (Category 3 or higher) by Monday.

Peak Intensity: Expected to reach Category 4 strength, with winds up to 145 mph, within the next two days.

Approaching Florida: Some weakening is possible before landfall due to wind shear, but Milton is still likely to be a powerful hurricane when it reaches Florida.

Expected Impacts

Florida Peninsula and Keys

Storm Surge: Life-threatening storm surge is possible along portions of the west coast of Florida beginning early Wednesday. Areas of onshore winds may experience significant coastal flooding.

Wind: Damaging winds are expected. Hurricane conditions (winds 74 mph or higher) are possible along the west coast starting Wednesday.

Rainfall:

Amounts: 5 to 10 inches widespread; isolated totals up to 15 inches.

Timing: Starting Monday, with the heaviest rain Tuesday through Wednesday night.

Flooding Risks: High risk of flash flooding, urban flooding, and river flooding.

Surf and Rip Currents: Dangerous surf conditions and rip currents are expected along the Gulf Coast.

Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico

Wind: Tropical storm conditions expected Monday morning; hurricane conditions possible by Monday afternoon.

Storm Surge: Water levels could rise 2 to 4 feet above normal along the northern coast.

Rainfall: 2 to 4 inches of rain, potentially causing localized flooding.

Watches and Warnings

Mexico

Hurricane Watch: Celestún to Cabo Catoche

Tropical Storm Warning: Celestún to Cancún

Florida

Anticipated: Storm Surge and Hurricane Watches likely to be issued early Monday for portions of the Florida Peninsula.

Preparation Recommendations

For Residents in Florida:

1. Stay Informed:

Monitor updates from the National Hurricane Center and local authorities.

Be aware of official evacuation orders.

2. Prepare Your Home:

Secure outdoor items.

Protect windows and doors with storm shutters or plywood.

Ensure backup power sources are ready.

3. Emergency Supplies:

Stock up on water, non-perishable food, medications, and first-aid supplies.

Have batteries, flashlights, and a battery-powered radio.

4. Plan for Evacuation:

Know your evacuation zone and route.

Make arrangements for pets.

5. Safety First:

Avoid coastal areas during the storm.

Never drive through flooded roads.

For Residents in the Yucatán Peninsula:

Follow local authorities' guidance.

Complete preparations for tropical storm or hurricane conditions by Monday morning.

Be cautious of flooding and high winds.

Key Messages

1. Life-Threatening Conditions Expected: Milton is forecast to be a major hurricane when it reaches Florida. Significant storm surge, damaging winds, and heavy rainfall are likely.

2. Uncertainty Remains: While the exact path and intensity are not certain, impacts can occur far from the center. Prepare accordingly.

3. Heavy Rainfall Ahead of the Storm: Areas of heavy rain may begin impacting Florida on Monday, increasing flood risks.

4. Monitor Official Updates: Keep up with information from the National Hurricane Center and local emergency management.

Conclusion

Hurricane Milton poses a serious threat to parts of the Gulf Coast. Residents in the affected areas should take this time to prepare and heed any instructions from local officials. Your safety is the top priority.

For More Information:

National Hurricane Center: www.hurricanes.gov

Local Weather Updates: Tune into local news stations and weather services.

Emergency Alerts: Ensure your mobile devices are set to receive emergency notifications.

Stay safe and take all necessary precautions as Hurricane Milton approaches.