Hurricane Milton has rapidly intensified into a major Category 4 storm, bordering on Category 5, and is poised to make landfall on Florida's west coast early Thursday morning. This powerful hurricane poses a significant threat to life and property, with potentially catastrophic impacts, particularly in the Tampa Bay region.
- Intensity: Milton's sustained winds are currently near 130 mph, with higher gusts possible. This places it among the strongest hurricanes to threaten the region in recent past.
- Storm surge: Life-threatening storm surge inundation of 10 to 15 feet above ground level is possible in some coastal areas. This could result in widespread flooding and significant damage to life.
- High winds: Hurricane-force winds will extend well into inland from the coast, causing potential damage to buildings, power lines.
- Heavy rainfall: Torrential rainfall is expected, leading to flash flooding and riverine flooding.
Hurricane Milton is still in an evolving and dangerous situation.
