Meteorologists predicted an intense hurricane season in 2024. It began with Berylbut strangely since From August 20 to September 23 there was unprecedented calm. However, the forecasts were confirmed in recent days. After the passage of Francine and Helenenow it comes Miltonwhich went from being a tropical storm with winds of 40 miles per hour to becoming a Category 5 hurricane in less than 48 hours (at this time it dropped to Category 2).
Milton has wreaked havoc as it passed along Florida’s Gulf Coast, making landfall near Siesta Key as a Category 3 storm. With sustained winds of 120 mph (193.1 kilometers per hour) and even stronger gusts, Milton It has become one of the most devastating storms to impact the region in years. As the system moves inland, communities along Florida’s west coast are preparing to deal with the consequences of this weather phenomenon. Authorities and residents are on high alert as severe weather conditions are expected to continue over the next few hours.
The first images and reports from the affected area reveal the magnitude of the damage that Milton has already begun to inflict. In Tampa, torrential rain and high winds have flooded streets and caused damage to infrastructure. Rainfall of up to six feet has been recorded in a short period, leading to flash flood warnings. The storm, although now weakened, remains dangerous, with winds still exceeding 100 mph (160 kilometers per hour), which has resulted in power outages affecting more than two million residents throughout the State of Florida.
The authorities’ response has intensified as the situation becomes more critical. The National Hurricane Center has issued warnings for life-threatening storm surge and extreme wind conditions. In an effort to coordinate relief and recovery, President Joe Biden has reached out to local officials, including Sarasota Mayor Liz Alpert, offering federal support to affected communities. Additionally, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has reported that thousands of utility technicians are in the state, ready to begin restoring power as soon as conditions allow.
Where did Milton make landfall and where is he headed?
Hurricane Milton made landfall near Siesta Key, Florida, as a Category 3 storm with sustained winds of 120 mph (193.1 kilometers per hour) and even stronger gusts, according to the National Hurricane Center. It is expected that Milton maintain hurricane strength as it moves across central Florida through Thursday morning.
What will be the severity of the damage?
Torrential rains and strong winds are affecting Tampa, Florida. The storm is in its most violent phase in the area, with approximately six feet (1.8 meters) of rain already fallen and another eight feet expected in the coming hours, causing flash flooding. Additionally, more than two million people have been reported without power throughout the State, especially in Manatee, Sarasota, Hardee and Pinellas counties.
Response from the authorities
In its most recent update, the National Hurricane Center issued a warning about “life-threatening storm surge, extreme winds and flash flooding.” President Joe Biden has been in communication with several Florida authorities, offering federal assistance to affected communities. Additionally, Governor Ron DeSantis reported that more than 50,000 technicians are in the State and will begin working on restoring electrical service as soon as it is safe to do so.
What if I have plans to travel to that part of Florida?
Tampa International Airport canceled flights at 9 a.m. Tuesday, and clarified in your X account that your spaces will not be shelter for people or their cars. On the other hand, the St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport closed operations Tuesday afternoon, as did Orlando’s.
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