Hurricane Milton Tampa: What to Expect as the Category 4 Storm Approaches

MIAMI — The Florida Keys are under a tropical storm watch as Hurricane Milton rapidly strengthens on its way to Florida's Gulf Coast. Milton grew into a Category 4 hurricane Monday morning. Some weakening is anticipated before the hurricane reaches the Florida mainland. The most likely path suggests it could make landfall in or near the Tampa Bay area on Wednesday. Gov. Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency in 35 counties ahead of Milton's expected landfall. This number has since increased to 51 counties, impacting areas like Broward, Miami-Dade, and Monroe.

The National Hurricane Center reported that Milton will move east-southeastward to eastward for the next 36 hours, followed by a turn toward the northeast at a quicker pace. Parts of Florida remain under storm surge and hurricane watches. Specifically, a hurricane watch is in effect for Florida's Gulf Coast from Chokoloskee to the mouth of the Suwannee River, which includes Tampa Bay and the Dry Tortugas. A storm surge watch is also issued for the Gulf coast from Flamingo north to the Suwannee River, targeting areas like Charlotte Harbor and Tampa Bay.

Dangerous storm surge is expected. Tampa Bay and the Anclote River could witness surge heights reaching up to 12 feet. The area spanning Charlotte Harbor to Yankeetown may experience surge of up to 10 feet, while locations from Bonita Beach to Chokoloskee could see between 7 to 5 feet of storm surge. Prepare accordingly!