As Hurricane Milton, a powerful Category 5 storm, approaches the Tampa Bay area, residents and officials are bracing for severe impacts. The storm is expected to make landfall later today, with potential landfall south of Tampa, although forecasting models remain uncertain.
Hillsborough County Fire Station Closures Amid Evacuation Orders
In response to the storm, Hillsborough County has issued critical evacuation orders for zones A and B. Fire stations in these evacuation zones will close by 8 AM, with personnel and vehicles being relocated to safer areas. Firefighters will be unable to respond to emergencies during hurricane-force winds, making it essential for residents to evacuate if they haven’t already. As seen during Hurricane Helene, storm surge and winds can prevent first responders from reaching affected areas.
Deadly Storm Surge Threatens Coastal Areas
One of the greatest dangers with Hurricane Milton is the potentially catastrophic storm surge, especially near and south of the expected landfall. Forecasts suggest a surge between 10 to 15 feet, with Pinellas and Pasco counties also at risk. Even areas north of the eye wall could see significant flooding, underscoring the importance of evacuating from vulnerable zones.
Major Closures and Preparations
As the storm approaches, many local attractions and businesses have closed their doors:
- All Bay Area universities and colleges are closed.
- Busch Gardens, Florida Aquarium, Tampa Zoo, and other tourist destinations are also shut down.
- Disney Parks will close today at 2 PM.
Hillsborough County will keep debris and yard waste collection sites open from 7 AM to noon, as storm cleanup efforts continue.
Hurricane Milton: Meteorologist’s Latest Update
According to meteorologist Mike Prangley, Hurricane Milton’s pressure has dropped to 907 millibars, a sign of its intensifying strength. The current trajectory suggests landfall near Sarasota around 2 AM, with impacts stretching from the Florida Keys to the Carolinas. Widespread hurricane warnings have been issued.
Prangley emphasized that residents shouldn’t focus solely on the storm’s center, as the hurricane’s massive size will bring dangerous conditions far beyond the eye. Even areas like Pasco County, north of the projected path, are facing a surge threat of up to 8 feet.
Key Concerns:
- Tornado threat: Increases later this afternoon.
- Storm surge and flooding: Particularly in areas south of the storm, but widespread flooding is expected across Florida.
- Power outages: Widespread, lasting into Thursday and possibly longer as conditions worsen.
County-by-County Breakdown: What to Expect
Meteorologist Amanda Pappas provided a county-by-county forecast, noting that areas like Citrus and Pasco counties can expect hurricane conditions between 8 PM tonight and 8 AM tomorrow. These regions may experience winds of 70 to 90 mph, up to 12 inches of rain, and storm surges of 5 to 8 feet.
Manatee and Sarasota counties, along with parts of Hillsborough, are expected to bear the brunt of the storm, with severe flooding, high winds, and storm surges.
Polk County Residents Brace for Impact
In Polk County, conditions are expected to worsen by lunchtime. Many residents have already taken precautions, boarding up homes and businesses. Those living in mobile homes, RVs, and campers are particularly vulnerable. Local shelters are open, and about 400 people have already evacuated to safer locations.
One resident from Bartow, who has faced previous storms like Hurricane Ian and Helene, expressed frustration, saying he’s ready to leave Florida due to the emotional toll of repeated hurricanes.
Traffic and Evacuation Updates
As people rush to evacuate, traffic remains steady but manageable. Light rain is starting to affect visibility on roads, but major routes like I-4, I-275, and I-75 are open. Gas stations are being refueled, and Florida Highway Patrol is assisting fuel trucks to ensure evacuees have access to gas.
The Florida Department of Transportation has implemented emergency shoulder use plans, allowing drivers to use the left shoulder on certain highways to help with evacuation efforts. Toll fees have been waived across the state.
Barrier Island Access Restricted
In anticipation of the storm, access to barrier islands in Pinellas and Sarasota counties has been restricted. The Ringling Causeway Bridge is closed, along with access to Siesta Key, Lido Key, Bird Key, and Saint Armands Key. While residents can leave these areas, no one will be allowed back in until the storm has passed.
Stay Safe, Stay Informed
As Hurricane Milton inches closer to landfall, it’s crucial to heed evacuation orders and stay informed. Conditions will deteriorate rapidly throughout the afternoon and evening, with impacts expected to last well into Thursday.
For those still needing to evacuate, roads remain open, and some gas stations are operational. Stay tuned to local news for continuous updates on Hurricane Milton’s path, evacuation efforts, and shelter information.
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