Hurricane Milton is rapidly intensifying as it moves across the Gulf of Mexico, now classified as a high-Category 5 storm, with sustained winds reaching 155 knots and a dangerously low central pressure of 897 mb. According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), conditions could allow for further intensification overnight due to the warm waters of the Gulf. Although wind shear may weaken the storm on Wednesday, it is expected to expand in size, posing “extremely life-threatening” hazards along Florida’s west coast.
NHC officials have warned that Milton has the potential to be one of the most destructive hurricanes in the region’s history, urging residents to evacuate without delay. A significant storm surge is anticipated, particularly impacting areas still recovering from Hurricane Helene’s record-setting effects.
Tampa, along with the Port of Tampa Bay, is directly in the storm’s path. The U.S. Coast Guard has implemented port condition Yankee, indicating that gale-force winds from the hurricane’s outer bands could arrive within 24 hours. While inbound vessel traffic has been halted, landside operations at the port continue as long as safety allows, given its critical role in Florida’s fuel distribution and emergency response.
In response to the evacuation order for the Tampa Bay area, traffic on northbound highways has surged as residents heed warnings to seek safety. Tampa Mayor Jane Castor emphasized the urgency, stating, “Get out as quickly as you can. Do not wait.”
Adding to the challenges, the cleanup from Hurricane Helene is still ongoing, with debris piling up at curbsides, which could become dangerous projectiles during Milton’s approach. Governor Ron DeSantis has initiated a round-the-clock cleanup effort to clear as much debris as possible before the next storm arrives.
On Florida’s Atlantic coast, ports are also preparing for the hurricane. While Milton is expected to weaken over land, it may still maintain hurricane strength as it moves over northeastern Florida. The U.S. Coast Guard has preemptively warned of potential closures for the ports of Charleston, Savannah, Brunswick, Jacksonville, and Port Canaveral, along with smaller harbors in between. Residents and officials are urged to stay vigilant as the storm approaches.
