A state of emergency has been declared in several parts of Florida as Hurricane Milton barrels toward the already-devastated Gulf Coast.
The National Hurricane Center confirmed that Milton, currently positioned off the coast of Mexico, has intensified into a Category 1 hurricane as of Sunday. Forecasters warn it could bring “life-threatening hazards” to areas along Florida’s west coast.
This new threat comes just ten days after Storm Helene, the deadliest storm to hit the mainland since Hurricane Katrina in 2005, swept through the Southeast, resulting in at least 225 fatalities, with hundreds still unaccounted for.
In Florida, where Storm Helene claimed at least 14 lives, Governor Ron DeSantis has issued emergency warnings for 35 counties. Preparations are already underway to restore power and clear roads in anticipation of Hurricane Milton’s arrival.
As of Sunday, Hurricane Milton has maximum sustained winds reaching 80 mph (130 km/h).
The National Hurricane Center has indicated “increasing confidence” that a powerful hurricane will bring life-threatening hazards to portions of Florida’s west coast by midweek.
Heavy rainfall is anticipated in the region starting Sunday through Monday, followed by more rain and strong winds on Tuesday and Wednesday night.
Rainfall totals across the Florida Peninsula and the Keys could range from 5 to 8 inches (127 to 203 mm), with some areas possibly receiving up to 12 inches (304 mm). This significant precipitation raises concerns for flash flooding and minor-to-moderate river flooding along parts of the west coast, according to the Hurricane Center.
