Tropical Storm Milton Expected to Strengthen into a Category 3 Hurricane, Likely Making Landfall Near Tampa

Florida residents are now facing an alarming forecast as Tropical Storm Milton has evolved into a severe weather threat.

On Saturday afternoon, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) officially named the budding cyclone Tropical Storm Milton.  However, within 24 hours, the forecast experienced a drastic change.  Milton is now expected to intensify into a hurricane by Monday and will likely make landfall on Florida’s west coast by Wednesday.

“I don’t like the way this is developing at all, and it’s going to happen pretty quickly,” Bryan Norcross, a FOX Weather Hurricane Specialist, said. “It just means the odds are significantly higher today than they were yesterday that a memorable, impactful storm is going to hit Florida in the days ahead.”

According to the NHC, Milton will most likely take its sharp turn towards the east/northeast over the central and eastern Gulf of Mexico early next week. By Monday, the storm will reach hurricane strength and increase throughout the early parts of the week.  Additionally, it is predicted that Milton could be a Category 3 hurricane and will make landfall near the Tampa metro area by Wednesday.

“In some areas, it will likely be higher than in Hurricane Helene,” Norcross said.  “It’s critical that everybody in Central and South Florida stay well-informed since things are developing quickly.”

As of now, Milton’s effect will be felt as early as Sunday as heavy rain is expected to begin in Central and South Florida. Winds will pick up close to Tuesday evening before the storm’s arrival. Outside of the damaging winds, the main concern is the potentially life-threatening storm surge along Florida’s west coast. Intense rain could also trigger widespread flooding, increasing the dangers over Florida’s lower regions.

Nonetheless, as the forecast evolves, Florida residents should start preparing. Local officials are likely to issue evacuation orders, but it’s best to begin your preparations now. To simplify it, try stocking up on essentials such as toilet paper, canned goods, water, flashlights, batteries, and medication.  You should also make an evacuation plan and stay up to date on the weather alerts.