Hurricane Milton made landfall on Florida’s Gulf Coast, bringing powerful winds and dangerous storm surges. As a Category 3 storm, it is impacting millions, with more than 3.3 million people in the Tampa Bay area potentially facing widespread destruction after decades of avoiding major hurricanes.

Mass evacuations and closures
In preparation for Hurricane Milton, authorities ordered millions to evacuate, closing bridges and key infrastructure. The storm’s rapid approach follows Hurricane Helene, which hit northern Florida’s Big Bend region just two weeks ago.

Forecasters at the National Hurricane Center warned that Milton, still a major hurricane, is expected to maintain dangerous strength as it moves across central Florida and toward the Atlantic. The storm made landfall near Sarasota, about 50 miles south of Tampa, with maximum sustained winds of 120 mph (195 kph).

President Biden monitors the storm closely
President Joe Biden postponed an overseas trip to remain at the White House and monitor Hurricane Milton, which he described as “one of the worst storms in 100 years to hit Florida.”

Unusual hurricane season surprises experts
Hurricane Milton adds to a bizarre hurricane season that has perplexed scientists. While the season started quietly, five hurricanes formed between September 26 and October 6, breaking previous records. Milton intensified at a record pace, going from a tropical storm to a Category 5 hurricane in just 46 hours.

Phil Klotzbach, a hurricane researcher, noted the strange phenomenon of three simultaneous hurricanes occurring on Sunday and Monday, a first in recorded history.

Florida’s vulnerable coastline braces for destruction
Florida's Gulf Coast, especially the Tampa Bay area, is highly vulnerable to storm surge. Milton is expected to bring surges of 6 to 9 feet in Tampa Bay, with surges of up to 13 feet further south, from Anna Maria Island to Boca Grande.

Officials in St. Petersburg warned of extended blackouts and potential sewage system shutdowns. Mayor Ken Welch emphasized the challenge ahead, stating, “We have a long road ahead of us.”

Airports and theme parks close in response to storm
Airports, including Tampa International and Orlando International, have shut down in anticipation of the storm. Theme parks, including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld, have also temporarily closed.

The Waffle House Index: A storm gauge
For many residents of Southeastern states, the Waffle House Index serves as an informal gauge of hurricane severity. A closed Waffle House is often seen as a sign of an impending disaster. This unique measure, developed by a federal emergency management official, has become a reliable indicator of storm impact and areas in need of aid.

AP