Hurricane Milton Poised to Strike West-Central Florida
Hurricane Milton Poised to Strike West-Central Florida
Hurricane Milton, a Category 5 storm, is rapidly approaching the west coast of Florida, threatening widespread destruction for the Tampa Bay area. The National Hurricane Center warns that Milton could be one of the most devastating hurricanes in the region’s history. With maximum sustained winds of 160 mph, Milton is expected to weaken but remain a major hurricane upon making landfall late Wednesday or early Thursday.
Residents Face Grim Odds as Evacuation Time Runs Out
Despite mandatory evacuation orders for 11 Florida counties with a population of 5.9 million, some residents have chosen to stay put. Tampa Mayor Jane Castor stressed that the storm surge forecast for her city could reach 15 feet, posing a life-threatening risk. Officials have emphasized that emergency responders will not risk their lives during the height of the storm, leaving those who remain behind to fend for themselves.
Communities Still Reeling from Hurricane Helene
Milton targets communities still recovering from Hurricane Helene, which left a trail of destruction across western Florida two weeks ago. In Punta Gorda, piles of debris litter the streets, a grim reminder of the devastation Helene brought. Despite the risk, some residents like accountant and art collector Scott Joiner plan to ride out Milton, recalling the harrowing experience when Hurricane Helene flooded the first floor of his home and bull sharks swam in the streets.
State and Local Governments Scramble to Prepare
State and local governments are working tirelessly to prepare for Milton’s impact. Governor Ron DeSantis has deployed over 300 dump trucks to remove debris left by Hurricane Helene, reducing the potential hazard of flying missiles. Authorities are urging residents to listen to evacuation orders and seek shelter immediately.
Uncertain Path, Heavy Rain Expected
The precise track of Milton remains uncertain, with forecasters adjusting the predicted path slightly south of Tampa. Heavy rain has begun spreading across parts of southwestern and west-central Florida, increasing the risk of catastrophic flooding. Up to 18 inches of rain could fall in central and northern Florida, bringing the potential for flash floods, urban flooding, and river flooding.
Lingering Trauma and Fear
For those who experienced Hurricane Helene, the approach of Milton evokes fear and unease. Evan Purcell, who suffered thousands of dollars in damage from flooding, is determined to evacuate this time. “I’m still in shock over the first one and here comes round two,” he said. “I just have a pit in my stomach about this one.”
International Impact and Minor Damage
Hurricane Milton has already caused some damage in Mexico’s state of Yucatan, passing just offshore. Power lines, light poles, trees, and small thatched-roof structures were knocked down, but there were no reports of deaths or injuries.