Tropical Storm Milton rapidly intensified into a Category 1 hurricane aimed at Florida, less than two weeks after Hurricane Helene. Forecasters expect it to make landfall on Wednesday afternoon. The storm strengthened in the Gulf of Mexico, with sustained winds of 80 mph, likely reaching major hurricane status as a Category 3 storm. Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Milton is expected to hit Hillsborough or Pinellas counties. The hurricane was located about 290 miles west-northwest of Progreso, Mexico, moving east at 6 mph. Sandbag preparations were underway in Florida. Watches and warnings were in effect for rain, wind, and storm surges, with heavy rainfall expected to cause flooding. The storm’s track could make it the third storm from the Bay of Campeche to strike Florida since 1850. Helene made landfall on September 26, causing a dozen deaths in Pinellas County and damaging homes and businesses in the Tampa Bay area. Twenty-five Helene-related fatalities have been reported statewide. The hurricane center advised those in Florida, the Bahamas, and other areas to closely monitor Milton for potential impacts. Flooding, heavy rain, and strong winds were expected in the region as the storm approached the Florida Peninsula.
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Milton strengthens into Category 1 hurricane while Southeast continues to recover from Helene’s impact
