Tropical Storm Milton Strengthens in the Gulf of Mexico
Tropical Storm Milton developed in the Gulf of Mexico on Saturday afternoon and is on track to intensify into a hurricane later today. As of Sunday morning, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported that Milton could become a “major hurricane” as it progresses across the central and eastern Gulf, heading towards Florida’s west coast, which is still recovering from the impacts of Hurricane Helene.
Current Position and Path of Tropical Storm Milton
As of Sunday, 7 a.m. ET:
- Milton was situated approximately 345 miles west-northwest of Progreso, Mexico.
- The storm was approximately 860 miles west-southwest of Tampa, Florida.
- Maximum sustained winds were reported at 60 mph.
- Milton was moving east at a speed of 5 mph across the Gulf of Mexico.
Potential Dangers for Florida’s West Coast
The National Hurricane Center warned of “life-threatening impacts” as the storm approaches Florida’s west coast. Residents in the affected areas should prepare for possible hurricane and storm surge watches, which are likely to be issued in the coming hours. According to the NHC, dangerous storm surge and winds are anticipated to begin affecting the Florida Peninsula from late Tuesday or early Wednesday.
Rainfall and Flooding Risks
Heavy rainfall is expected for the Florida Peninsula and the Keys, with predictions of 5 to 8 inches of rain, and localized areas potentially receiving up to 12 inches before Wednesday night. This intense precipitation could lead to flash flooding, urban flooding, and slight to moderate river flooding. Portions of the northern Yucatan Peninsula and western Cuba could see rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches.
Recent Conditions Following Hurricane Helene
Milton arises just over a week after Hurricane Helene, which struck Florida’s Big Bend as a Category 4 hurricane, causing significant destruction and resulting in at least 20 fatalities in Florida alone. Helene made its landfall with winds reaching 140 mph, causing widespread damage and claiming over 200 lives across the Southeastern U.S. Following the storm, many Floridians were still without power as emergency services are stretched thin due to the aftermath.
Active Hurricane Season with Ongoing Threats
Hurricane season continues until November 30, with the peak activity typically occurring between August and October. This year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported that 2023 was expected to be an active season, with Milton marking the 13th named storm of the year. Hurricane season is trending ahead of schedule, as the 13th storm usually doesn’t form until late October.
Federal and State Preparedness
In light of the hurricane season’s challenges, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas indicated that FEMA may struggle with funding for ongoing recovery after Helene. President Biden suggested that Congress could be compelled to pass a supplemental spending bill to assist states in managing recovery efforts from the storm’s devastating impacts.
