Hurricane Milton recently transformed into a Category 4 storm, with experts predicting it is set to make landfall in Florida if it continues following its current path. The state is currently making preparations for what could be its biggest evacuation in about seven years. Hurricane Milton is expected to make landfall mid-week on Wednesday. Unfortunately, it will be hitting an area that is still coping with Hurricane Helene’s devastation.
Florida preps for evacuation ahead of Hurricane Milton
On Monday, Hurricane Milton intensified from a Category 1 to Category 3 storm early in the morning. However, due to rapid intensification, Milton is now a Category 4 hurricane, which is set to make landfall in Florida on Wednesday. It is too soon to predict the exact location and magnitude. However, the National Hurricane Center noted there are more chances of damaging winds and life-threatening storm surges.
Hurricane Milton is predicted to make landfall in the Tampa Bay area and then its path traces across central Florida. It will likely remain a hurricane throughout due to its intensity and make its way to the Atlantic Ocean. After entering the Atlantic Ocean, Milton will stay north of the Yucatan Peninsula. The Mexican government has issued a hurricane warning and tropical storm warning across the Yucatan Peninsula.
While the exact time can’t be predicted as of yet, the National Hurricane Center is expecting Hurricane Milton to make landfall on Wednesday. The currently Category 4 hurricane will luckily not hit other southeastern states that were recently destroyed by Hurricane Helene. Helene previously hit Florida as well, with the death toll having risen beyond 230 people by October 6.
According to CBS News, Governor Ron DeSantis said, “I don’t think there’s any scenario where we don’t have major impacts at this point.” While the exact location can’t be predicted, the state is most likely not going to escape Hurricane Milton unscathed. Floridians are encouraged to stock up on food and water supply that shall last them a week. Moreover, they have been requested to stay ready to hit the road at all times, with emergency fuel and charging stations scattered across the evacuation routes.
