Much of central and southern Florida is under an elevated risk of tornados, with 53 tornado warnings already issued today by 3 PM ET, according to the Miami branch of the National Weather Service. The tornado alert map from the weather service is a tangled web of red stretching from Osceola County in the south to Miami-Dade County.
Approximately 14 million people are at risk for tornados in cities such as Tampa, Sarasota, Naples, Fort Myers, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and West Palm Beach. Tornados associated with tropical systems are generally weak but can form quickly and are often difficult to detect as they typically come with heavy rain.
Several tornados have already been reported today in Florida, including in Pine Island, Fort Myers, and along the eastern shore of Lake Okeechobee. The situation is critical, and residents are urged to stay alert to guidance from authorities.
What We Know About Hurricane Milton
The powerful and “catastrophic” storm, currently a Category 4 hurricane, is growing in size and is expected to make landfall late tonight. A forecast from NBC News predicts landfall sometime between 10 PM and 2 AM. Storm warnings cover nearly the entire west coast of Florida, with alerts also in much of the state, including the east coast.
An area along the coastline between Tampa and Fort Myers may experience flooding of up to 15 feet. As of 11:50 AM ET, Milton was located 190 miles southwest of Tampa, with sustained winds of 145 mph, moving northeast at 17 mph. Meteorologists have warned that this storm will traverse Florida from west to east.
Flooding and Heavy Rainfall Forecasts
In Orlando and nearby areas, forecasts predict up to 15 inches of rain, and meteorologists have issued warnings about an “extreme threat of rain with flooding.” Local authorities are on high alert and recommend that residents exercise caution when traveling.
Flooding is one of the primary concerns associated with Hurricane Milton, and many residents are being advised to prepare their homes and stock up on supplies. Roads may become impassable, and temporary shelters may be necessary for those living in high-risk areas.
10/9 at 3pm: Here is a view of all of the *Tornado Warnings* issued by NWS Tampa Bay, NWS Miami, and NWS Melbourne thus far.
As of 3pm, 53 total tornado warnings have been issued today…
41 issued by NWS Miami
Please remain aware for current and future tornado warnings! https://t.co/j3fr86cifC pic.twitter.com/Zc3WjqD7D6
— NWS Miami (@NWSMiami) October 9, 2024
How to Prepare for the Storm
As Hurricane Milton approaches, it is crucial for Florida residents to take appropriate precautions. Here are some essential tips:
- Stock Supplies: Ensure you have non-perishable food, drinking water, and enough medication for the duration of the storm.
- Important Documents: Keep copies of important documents, such as identification, medical records, and financial information, in a safe place.
- Evacuation Plan: Know the evacuation routes and have a plan in case of an emergency. Stay tuned to local authorities for instructions.
The forecast indicates that the situation will intensify in the coming hours, and public cooperation is vital for ensuring everyone’s safety.
Emergency Information
NBC News Lite, a lighter version of NBCNews.com, has been activated for readers in Florida, North Carolina, and Tennessee in response to the need for accessible information during emergencies. Citizens are encouraged to stay updated on safety information and follow local authorities’ recommendations.
Florida faces a critical moment, and proper preparation can make a difference. Continue to monitor updates on Hurricane Milton and tornado warnings.