What category is Hurricane Milton expected to reach?
The storm rapidly intensified from a tropical storm to a Category 1 hurricane on Sunday, is expected to continue strengthening as it approaches Florida.
Meteorologists predict that Hurricane Milton could reach major hurricane status, potentially becoming a Category 3 storm, by the time it makes landfall. The storm is tapping into the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, fueling its rapid growth.
To be classified as a Category 3 hurricane, Milton would need to maintain winds of at least 111 mph. Some models suggest the storm could potentially reach Category 3 status with winds up to 115 mph by the time it makes landfall.
As of Sunday afternoon, Milton was exhibiting sustained winds of 80 mph, with occasional stronger gusts.
The storm is expected to move north of the Yucatán Peninsula, traversing the Gulf of Mexico before approaching Florida’s western coast by midweek. Milton is forecasted to make landfall around Wednesday afternoon or evening, potentially in the Tampa Bay area.
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The storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall, with some areas potentially receiving up to a foot of rain, raising concerns for flash flooding and river flooding.
Hurricane Milton's estimated storm surge for Tampa Bay.
— Matt Dursh (@MattDursh) October 7, 2024
A direct landfall to Tampa or landfall to the north will be the worst case scenario for storm surge.
The counter clockwise spin of the hurricane will push water into the bay.pic.twitter.com/NRK4wkO3u8 pic.twitter.com/XnFkbFe7Be
This is combined with the recent events of Hurricane Helene, which the area is yet to recover from.
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