Hurricane Milton: more than a million people warned to evacuate

Summary

Hurricane Milton, one of the most intense storms to hit Florida's west coast in a century, has prompted mass evacuations as it threatens catastrophic damage. The Category 5 hurricane, fueled by unusually warm Gulf waters, could bring life-threatening storm surges up to 15 feet and winds of 180 mph. Florida's Governor and Vice President have clashed over the storm response. The storm follows another recent hurricane, leaving debris and increasing risks. Meteorologists are stunned by Milton’s rapid intensification, warning of more frequent, intense storms as climate change warms the oceans.

Takeaways

• 🌪️ Hurricane Milton is expected to be one of the most powerful storms to hit Florida's west coast in a century.
• 🚗 Tens of thousands of residents are evacuating, causing significant traffic jams as they flee the storm's path.
• ⚠️ Tampa's mayor issued a dire warning, stating that staying in evacuation areas could be fatal.
• 🌧️ The storm has intensified rapidly, reaching Category 5 status with winds up to 180 mph in record time.
• 🌊 A life-threatening storm surge of up to 15 feet is predicted, potentially causing catastrophic flooding.
• 💨 Meteorologists are shocked by the storm’s rapid intensification, calling it one of the fastest on record in the Atlantic Ocean.
• 🔥 Warmer waters in the Gulf of Mexico are fueling the storm’s strength, with climate change contributing to these extreme conditions.
• 🤝 Political tensions are rising, as Florida's governor rejected calls from the vice president, sparking criticism.
• 💬 Misinformation about hurricane relief, including false claims by former President Trump, is complicating recovery efforts.
• 📉 The hurricane may weaken slightly before landfall but will still bring heavy flooding, damaging winds, and dangerous storm surge.

Q & A

What is the significance of Hurricane Milton for Florida's west coast?

Hurricane Milton is predicted to be one of the most powerful storms to hit Florida's west coast in a century, with experts warning of catastrophic impacts. The storm is bringing life-threatening storm surge, heavy rainfall, and extremely high winds.

How did Hurricane Milton intensify, and why is it notable?

Hurricane Milton rapidly intensified from a Category 1 storm to a top-level Category 5 in record time, with winds reaching 180 mph. This makes it the third fastest-intensifying storm in Atlantic history, driven by unusually warm waters in the Gulf of Mexico.

What is the main concern for residents in evacuation areas according to the mayor of Tampa?

The mayor of Tampa warned that staying in evacuation areas during Hurricane Milton could be fatal. She described the situation as 'literally catastrophic,' emphasizing that those who choose to stay face severe risk to their lives.

Why is storm surge a significant threat with Hurricane Milton?

Storm surge is the biggest killer in hurricanes, responsible for nearly half of fatalities in Atlantic hurricanes over 50 years. In Milton's case, the predicted surge could be up to 15 feet in some areas, causing extreme flooding and devastation.

How is the political situation affecting hurricane preparations?

Florida's Governor Ron DeSantis reportedly refused calls from Vice President Kamala Harris, accusing them of being politically motivated. Harris criticized DeSantis for neglecting his duty to prioritize the safety of residents and also called out misinformation spread by Donald Trump about relief funds.

What role does climate change play in storms like Hurricane Milton?

Climate change, particularly the warming of oceans, contributes to more frequent and rapid intensification of hurricanes. The unusually high temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico have fueled Hurricane Milton's explosive growth and are expected to increase similar occurrences in the future.

What are the predicted impacts when Hurricane Milton makes landfall?

Milton is expected to make landfall as a Category 3 storm on Florida's west coast, bringing destructive winds, heavy flooding rains, and a significant storm surge that could inundate coastal areas and cause widespread damage.

Why are residents frustrated about the storm cleanup from Hurricane Helen?

Residents expressed frustration that debris from Hurricane Helen, which hit two weeks earlier, hadn't been cleared in time. This delay raises concerns about the debris becoming dangerous projectiles during Hurricane Milton's high winds.

What is the role of warm waters in the Gulf of Mexico in Milton’s intensification?

The unusually warm waters in the Gulf of Mexico have acted as 'rocket fuel' for Hurricane Milton, enabling it to intensify rapidly and become one of the most powerful storms on record in such a short time.

What are experts predicting about the future of hurricanes like Milton?

Experts predict that rapidly intensifying storms like Hurricane Milton will become more common due to climate change. Warmer oceans are expected to fuel more powerful storms in the coming years.