Hurricane Milton Weakens but Threatens Direct Hit on Tampa and St. Petersburg
Hurricane Milton is slightly weakening, yet it remains a powerful storm poised to deliver a once-in-a-century direct hit on Tampa and St. Petersburg. The storm threatens to inundate the densely populated region with enormous storm surges, turning debris from the recent devastation of Tropical Storm Helene into hazardous projectiles.
Key updates include:
The Gulf Coast of Florida is particularly susceptible to storm surges.
Tropical Storm Helene, which struck around 150 miles away from Tampa, led to drowning incidents in the region, with surges reaching 5 to 8 feet above normal tide levels.
Forecasters are predicting a potential 8- to 12-foot storm surge in Tampa Bay, the highest ever anticipated for the area, nearly double the levels seen during Helene.
Widespread flooding is also a concern, with estimated rainfall ranging from 5 to 10 inches across mainland Florida and the Keys, potentially exceeding 15 inches in some areas.
Florida officials have assured residents that there is no fuel shortage despite long lines at gas stations. They are collaborating with fuel companies to ensure a steady supply of gasoline.
Residents are urged to consider shorter evacuations, as driving long distances may not be necessary. Local options are available for those in need of safety.
The state has successfully helped evacuate over 200 healthcare facilities in the path of Hurricane Milton, and 36 county-operated shelters are currently open for residents seeking refuge.
