Tropical Depression 14 Forms in Gulf, Rapidly Intensifying into Hurricane Milton as Florida Braces for Impact

Tropical Depression 14 Forms in Gulf

A concerning shift in the forecast indicates that Tropical Depression Fourteen is likely to develop into a dangerous hurricane, potentially impacting the west coast of Florida later this week. Designated on Saturday morning, TD14 is projected to rapidly intensify into Hurricane Milton by early next week, with landfall expected around Wednesday.

Meteorologist Bryan Norcross from FOX Weather noted, "I don't like the way this is developing at all... the odds have significantly increased that an impactful storm will hit Florida." Currently, TD14 has peak winds of 35 mph and is moving northeast, but it's forecasted to strengthen as it approaches the Gulf.

Models predict significant rainfall across Florida, particularly from the Interstate 4 corridor southward, with areas potentially receiving 5-8 inches over the week, and some spots nearing a foot. While widespread flooding isn't anticipated, localized issues could arise from repeated thunderstorms.

Rough seas will also pose risks for increased rip currents and beach erosion. Norcross emphasized the potential for a major storm impacting Florida by midweek. With warm waters in the Caribbean and Gulf, October remains a crucial month for hurricane activity in the region, with historical data showing over 60% of landfalls occurring after the season’s peak on September 10. The National Hurricane Center is also monitoring other systems, including Hurricane Kirk and Hurricane Leslie, but they pose no immediate threat to land.

Tropical Depression 14 Forms in Gulf, Rapidly Intensifying into Hurricane Milton as Florida Braces for Impact