Hurricane Milton Strengthens to Category 4, Poised for Midweek Florida Landfall

Florida is bracing for Hurricane Milton, which has rapidly intensified into a Category 4 storm with sustained winds of 150 mph. Expected to make landfall midweek, Milton’s path follows closely on the heels of Hurricane Helene, which left the southeastern U.S. recovering from severe flooding and destruction. Florida’s governor has already declared an emergency across 51 counties, urging residents to prepare for evacuation as forecasts predict dangerous storm surges, heavy rainfall, and flooding. While much of the southeastern U.S. will be spared the brunt of Milton’s impact, regions still reeling from Helene remain cautious as recovery efforts continue.

Forecasters warn that Milton could raise water levels along Florida’s west coast by up to 12 feet and bring 5 to 15 inches of rain in certain areas, causing flash floods and river flooding. Emergency officials are urging Floridians to evacuate if directed and to restock supplies, especially as many remain affected by Helene’s aftermath. With several counties already issuing evacuation orders, Florida is preparing for what may be its largest evacuation since 2017’s Hurricane Irma.