Tropical Storm Milton Forms in Gulf of Mexico, May Intensify into Hurricane and Impact West Coast of Florida
Tropical Storm Milton formed over the southwestern Gulf of Mexico on Saturday and is forecast to intensify into a hurricane in the next few days as it makes its way towards the west coast of Florida, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC).
Current Status
As of Saturday, Tropical Storm Milton has maximum sustained winds of 40 mph and is moving north-northeast at 3 mph. It is currently located approximately 245 miles north of Veracruz, Mexico.
Forecast
The NHC predicts that the tropical storm will strengthen into a hurricane by early Monday. The system is expected to move slowly, but it could become a major hurricane while it crosses the central and eastern Gulf.
Areas Impacted
The NHC has warned that areas that could feel the system’s impact include the Yucatan peninsula of Mexico, the Florida Peninsula, the Florida Keys, and the northwestern Bahamas. Hurricane and storm surge watches are likely to be issued for parts of Florida on Sunday, particularly along the southwest coast and the Florida Keys.
Path Forward
While it is too early to predict the exact track of the storm, model guidance and the NHC are hinting that the core of the system may remain near Tampa. If this happens, the storm would need to move north to bring significant storm surge flooding to Fort Myers and moderate surge to Key West, with gusty winds in the Lower Keys and rain to the rest of South Florida.
Florida’s Response
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency in 35 counties ahead of the storm’s impact, including Broward, Miami-Dade, and Monroe.
Impacts to South Florida
- A Flood Watch is in effect from Sunday morning to Thursday morning for Miami-Dade and Broward counties.
- The storm will bring breezy and windy conditions to the region on Tuesday and Wednesday.
- Weather alerts for flood and tropical storm watches and warnings may be issued.
- Miami-Dade County Public Schools and Broward County Public Schools are monitoring the storm’s progress.
Rainfall
The National Weather Service estimates up to 8 inches of rain in Miami-Dade and up to 10 inches in Broward over the four-day period from Sunday to Wednesday. Rainfall amounts could reach over a foot closer to the storm’s center.
Conclusion
Tropical Storm Milton is a developing situation, and it is essential to monitor the latest forecasts and updates for the latest information on its track and potential impacts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current status of Tropical Storm Milton?
A: As of Saturday, Tropical Storm Milton has maximum sustained winds of 40 mph and is moving north-northeast at 3 mph.
Q: Where is Tropical Storm Milton headed?
A: The system is forecast to move towards the west coast of Florida, with the potential to bring significant impacts to the region.
Q: What areas are likely to be affected by the storm?
A: The Yucatan peninsula, the Florida Peninsula, the Florida Keys, and the northwestern Bahamas are all at risk, as well as areas along the west coast of Florida.
Q: What are the expected impacts to South Florida?
A: The storm is expected to bring heavy rain, breezy and windy conditions, and potential flooding to the region.
Q: What is being done to prepare for the storm?
A: The state of Florida has declared a state of emergency in 35 counties, and local school districts are monitoring the storm’s progress.
