Tropical Storm Milton Could Strengthen into Major Hurricane, Targeting Storm-Ravaged Florida Coast

Residents across Florida were placed on high alert Sunday as Tropical Storm Milton, currently off Mexico’s coast, threatens to rapidly intensify into a major hurricane. Expected to hit the Gulf Coast by midweek, this storm could have a significant impact on the state, which is still recovering from previous hurricanes.

Storm Status and Forecast

As of early Sunday, Milton’s center was approximately 860 miles (1,385 kilometers) west-southwest of Tampa, Florida. The storm is moving east at a slow pace of 5 mph (7 kph), with maximum sustained winds of 60 mph (95 kph), according to the National Hurricane Center in Miami. Forecasters warn that Milton could intensify quickly.

“Milton is moving slowly but is expected to strengthen rapidly,” the center stated. “There is increasing confidence that a powerful hurricane with life-threatening hazards will impact portions of Florida’s west coast by midweek.”

Governor DeSantis Prepares Florida

Governor Ron DeSantis addressed the state on Sunday, noting that while Milton’s exact landfall remains uncertain, it is clear Florida will experience significant effects. “I don’t think there’s any scenario where we don’t have major impacts at this point,” DeSantis said, urging residents to complete their preparations.

“You have time to prepare — all day today, all day Monday, and likely all day Tuesday,” he added, stressing the importance of knowing evacuation zones and ensuring emergency plans are in place. Mandatory and voluntary evacuations are expected as the storm approaches.

The governor has taken proactive measures, deploying around 4,000 National Guard troops to support emergency operations, including debris removal, in coordination with the Florida Division of Emergency Management and the Department of Transportation. DeSantis has also declared a state of emergency in 35 counties, reflecting the gravity of the situation.

“All available state assets are being marshaled to help remove debris,” DeSantis said. “We’re working around the clock — it’s all hands on deck.”

FEMA Prepares for Impact Amid Misinformation

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell spoke Sunday, addressing recent misinformation circulating about the agency’s response to natural disasters. “This kind of rhetoric is not helpful to people, and it’s unfortunate that politics is taking priority over helping those in need,” Criswell said on ABC’s This Week.

Criswell reassured Floridians that FEMA is fully prepared for Tropical Storm Milton, working closely with state and local officials to ensure a coordinated response. This includes pre-positioning necessary supplies, equipment, and personnel well before the storm’s arrival.

“We’re working hand in hand with the state to understand what their requirements will be, so we can have those in place before it makes landfall,” Criswell emphasized.

Storm Surge and Rainfall Warnings

In addition to strong winds, forecasters are warning of significant rainfall and storm surge threats across the Florida Peninsula, the Florida Keys, and the northwestern Bahamas. Heavy rainfall is expected ahead of the storm, with some areas forecast to receive up to a foot (30 centimeters) of rain through Wednesday night.

“There is an increasing risk of life-threatening storm surge and wind impacts for portions of Florida’s west coast, beginning late Tuesday or Wednesday,” the National Hurricane Center cautioned. Residents in affected areas are urged to finalize hurricane preparations and adhere to evacuation orders.

Active Hurricane Season

Tropical Storm Milton arrives amid a particularly active Atlantic hurricane season. Rescuers are still searching for missing individuals in the southeastern U.S. following the devastation of Hurricane Helene, which tore through Florida and the Appalachian Mountains, leaving behind widespread damage and casualties.

Meanwhile, Hurricane Kirk has weakened to a Category 2 storm, with top winds of 105 mph (165 kph). It continues to move through the open Atlantic, sending dangerous swells toward Bermuda and parts of the U.S. and Canadian coastlines. Another storm, Hurricane Leslie, is also churning in the Atlantic but poses no immediate threat to land as it tracks northwestward with winds of 85 mph (140 kph).

Florida, already battered by previous storms, now braces for another potential disaster with the approach of Tropical Storm Milton. Residents are strongly urged to stay updated, complete preparations, and follow all official warnings to ensure the safety of themselves and their communities.