Category 4 Hurricane Milton Strengthens to 155 MPH: Florida Faces Imminent Impacts

Category 4 Hurricane Milton Strengthens

Hurricane Milton Weakens Slightly but Remains a Major Threat to Florida

Hurricane Milton has weakened to a strong Category 4 storm with maximum sustained winds of 155 mph as of Wednesday morning. Although the storm is encountering unfavorable conditions, including strong wind shear, it could still make landfall as a Category 4 hurricane.

As of 8 a.m., Milton was located approximately 250 miles southwest of Tampa, moving northeast at 16 mph. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) expects the storm to increase speed and shift direction throughout the day. While fluctuations in intensity are anticipated, Milton is still classified as a dangerous hurricane as it approaches Florida’s west coast late Wednesday night or early Thursday morning.

Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for 51 counties, and President Biden has approved a federal disaster declaration. A hurricane warning is in effect for Florida’s west coast from Bonita Beach to the Suwannee River, and a storm surge warning is in place for areas including Tampa Bay and Charlotte Harbor.

Residents can expect hurricane-force winds extending 30 miles from the storm's center and tropical-storm-force winds reaching up to 140 miles outward. Coastal areas may experience significant storm surge flooding, with water levels rising as much as 15 feet in some locations.

Heavy rainfall is also a concern, with forecasts predicting 6 to 12 inches, and isolated areas could see up to 18 inches, raising the risk of life-threatening flooding. As Milton approaches, it remains critical for residents to stay informed and prepared for severe weather conditions.