Hurricane Milton to strengthen before hitting Florida midweek

Hurricane Milton is anticipated to strengthen as it approaches Florida, with landfall expected midweek. Meteorologists warn that the storm could bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding to affected areas. Residents are advised to stay informed about updates and prepare for possible disruptions. Emergency services are on standby to assist communities in need as the hurricane makes its way toward the state.

Hurricane Milton is anticipated to rapidly intensify before making landfall on Florida's Gulf Coast midweek. Residents were alerted on Sunday to prepare for a significant hurricane, with Governor Ron DeSantis advising those in vulnerable areas to brace for severe impacts.

The storm is projected to strike near the Tampa Bay area on Wednesday and may maintain its strength as it traverses central Florida en route to the Atlantic Ocean. This warning comes as the state is still recovering from Hurricane Helene, which caused extensive damage last week and resulted in 230 fatalities across the southeastern United States.

Governor DeSantis expanded the state of emergency to cover 51 counties on Sunday, urging individuals in evacuation zones, particularly along Florida’s west coast and barrier islands, to prepare to evacuate. "I don’t see any scenario where we won't experience significant impacts at this point," he remarked, advising residents to stockpile enough food, water, and other essentials for at least a week.

The Tampa Bay area, still recovering from Helene, is bracing for additional destruction. The region experienced twelve fatalities during Helene, prompting DeSantis to deploy National Guard troops to assist with debris removal and preparations for Milton. Schools in Pinellas County, located in St. Petersburg, have already closed from Monday to Wednesday, while local authorities are providing free parking in city garages to safeguard vehicles from potential flooding.

FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) is coordinating closely with the Florida government to prepare resources and response strategies ahead of Milton's arrival. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell stated that the agency is equipped to manage both the ongoing recovery from Helene and the approaching storm.

Meanwhile, in the Atlantic, Hurricane Kirk has weakened to a Category 2 storm, creating hazardous waves for Bermuda and the U.S. east coast. Hurricane Leslie is also present in the ocean but poses no immediate threat to land. However, Milton remains the primary concern as it approaches Florida, with officials urging everyone to remain vigilant.

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Source: indianexpress‍