Hurricane Milton Intensifies to Category 5, Posing Severe Threat to Florida’s West Coast

Hurricane Milton has intensified rapidly as it moves across the Gulf of Mexico and is now approaching Florida’s west coast as a powerful Category 5 storm, according to the National Hurricane Center. As of Monday night, the hurricane’s winds reached 155 knots, with air pressure in the eye dropping to 897 mb, near record lows. With the Gulf’s warm waters, the storm could strengthen further. Though wind shear may weaken it slightly by Wednesday, Milton is expected to expand and pose “extremely life-threatening” risks along the western coast of Florida.

The NHC has warned that Milton could be one of the most destructive hurricanes ever to hit west-central Florida, urging residents to follow evacuation orders. A large storm surge is anticipated on Florida’s west coast by Wednesday. The Tampa Bay area, which recently experienced severe flooding from Hurricane Helene, is directly in the storm’s path.

The US Coast Guard has set port condition Yankee for Tampa, meaning hurricane-force winds could arrive within 24 hours. Although incoming vessels have been stopped, port operations continue for now. Tampa is crucial for fuel supplies, which are essential for evacuation and recovery efforts.

An evacuation order has been issued for Tampa Bay, with traffic congestion reported as residents rush to leave the area. Mayor Jane Castor stressed the urgency of evacuating as soon as possible. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to clear debris left by Hurricane Helene, which could become hazardous projectiles when Milton hits. Florida’s Governor Ron DeSantis has ordered a round-the-clock cleanup to remove as much debris as possible before the storm arrives.

On the Atlantic coast, ports from Charleston to Port Canaveral are also preparing for Milton, which is expected to still be a hurricane when it reaches northeastern Florida.