Tropical Storm Milton strengthened into a potential hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico and was forecasted to make landfall on the west coast of Florida later in the week. With maximum sustained winds of 50 mph, the storm was slowly moving east. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency in 35 counties in preparation for the storm’s impact, requesting resources to help with recovery efforts from the previous Hurricane Helene. Although no coastal watches or warnings were issued, the National Hurricane Center advised residents in Florida, the Florida Keys, Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula, and the northwestern Bahamas to monitor the storm’s progress.
The storm was expected to intensify, bringing the risk of life-threatening impacts to parts of Florida. Heavy rainfall was anticipated, which could lead to flash flooding and river flooding in some areas. The hurricane center warned of potential storm surges and wind impacts for portions of the west coast of the Florida Peninsula starting on Tuesday or Wednesday. Residents were advised to have their hurricane plans ready, follow guidance from local officials, and stay updated on the forecast. Hurricane and storm-surge watches were likely to be in effect from Sunday.
At the same time, Hurricane Kirk, a Category 4 major hurricane with sustained winds of 115 mph, was located west-southwest of the Azores. The storm was generating large swells that were affecting various islands and coastlines, leading to dangerous surf and rip current conditions. The swells were expected to move north along the U.S. East Coast, Canada’s Atlantic Coast, and reach the Azores, potentially causing disruptions and hazards in these regions. Another storm, Hurricane Leslie, was moving northwest over the Atlantic without posing any immediate threat to land.
The National Hurricane Center was closely monitoring the development of these storms as rescue efforts continued in the U.S. Southeast following Hurricane Helene’s impact. The widespread destruction caused by Helene included a trail of death and catastrophic damage, prompting the need for continued search and recovery operations. With Tropical Storm Milton and Hurricane Kirk posing potential threats to different areas, authorities were urging residents to stay informed, prepare for possible evacuations, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. As the Atlantic hurricane season remained active, it was vital for individuals and communities to remain vigilant and ready to respond to rapidly changing weather conditions.
