Hurricane Milton has been a source of anxiety for Florida residents as the massive storm approaches landfall. With fluctuating intensities and unpredictable trajectories, many are left wondering: Did Milton make landfall, and what are the consequences for Florida’s vulnerable coastlines?
Hurricane Milton’s Path Toward Florida
As of Wednesday, Hurricane Milton had weakened to a still powerful Category 3 storm. The storm initially reached Category 5 status with winds surpassing 180 mph but began to decrease in strength as it approached Florida. By 7 p.m. ET, the northern eyewall started moving ashore, bringing the brunt of the storm to Sarasota. The storm is expected to make landfall between 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. ET.
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Despite its reduced intensity, Milton remains highly dangerous. The National Hurricane Center warned residents in Tampa and St. Petersburg of life-threatening hurricane-force winds. Residents in these areas were advised to shelter in place, as the eyewall’s movement brought extreme weather to Florida’s central west coast.
Where Did Milton Make Landfall?
As the storm moves closer, the critical question on everyone’s mind is: Where did Milton make landfall? According to the latest advisory, Milton’s landfall is expected to occur near Sarasota. The storm’s speed, approximately 17 mph, suggests the landfall could be slightly earlier than expected.
The National Hurricane Center also predicted that Milton’s trajectory would bring its eyewall to the Tampa Bay region, a forecast that could mean widespread destruction in the area.
Forecasters continue to update their projections as Milton inches closer to the coast. These updates have revealed that storm surge warnings and hurricane warnings extend across both Florida’s east and west coasts. Some areas may experience surges as high as 13 feet, depending on the exact location and timing of the storm’s impact.
Has Milton Made Landfall Yet?
As of 7 p.m. Wednesday, the National Weather Service reported that Milton had not made landfall yet. However, dangerous conditions, including extreme winds and flooding, have already started to affect parts of Florida.
The storm’s outer bands brought tornado warnings across multiple regions, with Miami, Tampa Bay, and Fort Myers seeing significant tornado activity.
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The storm surge threat is another critical concern. Forecasts suggest that areas from Anna Maria Island to Boca Grande could experience storm surges ranging from 9 to 13 feet, higher than a typical single-story building.
The Tampa Bay region, known for its vulnerability to hurricanes, may see 6 to 9 feet of storm surge, enough to flood entire neighborhoods.
The Aftermath of Hurricane Milton’s Landfall
Once Milton makes landfall, it is expected to weaken rapidly as it crosses Florida. However, the risks don’t end there. The storm surge, heavy rainfall, and flash flooding are likely to cause life-threatening conditions in many areas. Forecasters warn of up to 18 inches of rain in parts of the Florida peninsula, leading to urban flooding and river overflows.
As Milton continues its path toward the Atlantic Ocean, it is expected to transition into a tropical storm by Thursday afternoon. The hurricane has already left its mark, dumping more than 3 inches of rain in just a few hours in some areas, including St. Petersburg. Airports and local businesses are experiencing closures and delays as the storm disrupts normal activities.
The Tampa Bay area, home to over 3.3 million residents, has not experienced a hurricane of this magnitude in over 100 years.
Local officials are urging residents to stay vigilant as the storm’s effects could still be catastrophic, even as it weakens. As Milton approaches landfall, many fear it will be one of the most destructive hurricanes to hit the region in recent history.
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As the storm unfolds, questions like “Did Milton make landfall?” and “Has Milton made landfall yet?” continue to dominate discussions in Florida. The storm’s unpredictable nature and the potential for widespread damage have left communities bracing for impact. For now, residents must stay alert, follow local advisories, and take precautions as this dangerous storm makes its final approach.
Milton’s landfall is imminent, and its effects will be felt across Florida for days to come. Stay informed, stay safe, and stay prepared.
