Hurricane Milton Threatens Florida Amid Ongoing Recovery from Helene
By CCN News | Published:Oct 09, 2024
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A late-season major hurricane, Milton, is poised to make landfall in Florida this evening, adding to the state's woes just weeks after Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc, claiming over 200 lives. As preparations intensify, the Florida governor’s office has declared a state of emergency for affected regions, prompting mass evacuations along the west-central coast.
According to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC), Hurricane Milton has rapidly intensified into a Category 5 storm, with predictions indicating it could be one of the most destructive hurricanes in Florida's history. “Preparations to protect life and property, including being ready for long-duration power outages, should be rushed to completion,” the NHC advised.
Milton’s explosive growth can be attributed to record-high ocean temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico, creating an environment ripe for hurricane intensification. The storm is expected to produce dangerous storm surges, with inundations reaching heights of 10 feet (3 meters) or more, particularly threatening densely populated areas like Tampa Bay.
As of this morning, hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 30 miles (45 km) from Milton’s center, with tropical-storm-force winds extending as far as 80 miles (130 km). The hurricane is anticipated to maintain its size as it crosses Florida and exits into the Atlantic Ocean, mirroring the path of Hurricane Helene, but striking the Fort Myers area.
This October, the Atlantic is unusually busy, with three hurricanes, including Milton, Leslie, and Kirk, active simultaneously. While Kirk has since weakened and transitioned into an ex-tropical cyclone, Milton remains a significant threat.
Impacts Beyond Florida
Internationally, the aftermath of recent hurricanes raises questions about climate change's role in the increasing intensity and frequency of such storms. A report by World Weather Attribution identified climate change as a significant factor in the catastrophic effects of Hurricane Helene. The study concluded that the rainfall associated with Helene was approximately 10% heavier due to climate change, with higher rainfall totals becoming 40% to 70% more likely.
The report warns that if global fossil fuel consumption continues unchecked, future devastating rainfall events could increase by 15-25% as global warming approaches 2 °C above pre-industrial levels.
Image Source: WMO
A Call for Preparedness
In light of these developments, officials are emphasizing the importance of preparedness and communication. The challenges faced during Hurricane Helene—where most fatalities occurred inland due to limited evacuation infrastructure and communication—serve as a stark reminder of the need for better systems to protect all communities.
As Milton approaches, residents are urged to heed evacuation orders and take precautions against potential flooding and power outages. The NHC and local authorities continue to provide updates as the situation unfolds, underscoring the critical need for vigilance in the face of increasingly severe weather events.
As communities brace for Hurricane Milton's impact, the focus remains not only on immediate safety but also on the long-term implications of climate change on future storms and their devastating effects on lives and livelihoods.
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