BULLETIN: Hurricane Milton Advisory Number 8

NWS National Hurricane Center Miami, FL
400 AM CDT Mon Oct 07, 2024

…MILTON STRENGTHENING OVER THE SOUTHERN GULF OF MEXICO…
…STORM SURGE AND HURRICANE WATCHES ISSUED FOR PORTIONS OF FLORIDA…

Summary of 400 AM CDT Information:

  • Location: 22.1N 92.6W
    About: 195 miles (310 km) WNW of Progreso, Mexico
    About: 750 miles (1210 km) WSW of Tampa, Florida
  • Maximum Sustained Winds: 100 mph (155 km/h)
  • Movement: ESE at 8 mph (13 km/h)
  • Minimum Central Pressure: 972 MB (28.71 inches)

Watches and Warnings:

Changes with this advisory:

  • Mexico: A Hurricane Warning is in effect for the Yucatan Peninsula from Celestun to Rio Lagartos.
  • Florida: A Hurricane Watch is now in effect for the Gulf Coast from Chokoloskee northward to the mouth of the Suwannee River, including Tampa Bay and the Dry Tortugas.
  • Storm Surge Watch: Issued for the Florida Gulf Coast from Flamingo northward to the Suwannee River, including Charlotte Harbor and Tampa Bay.
  • Tropical Storm Watch: Issued for the Florida Gulf Coast west of the Suwannee River to Indian Pass, and south of Chokoloskee to Flamingo. It also includes the Lower, Middle, and Upper Florida Keys, including Florida Bay.

Summary of Watches and Warnings in Effect:

  • Hurricane Warning:
    • Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico from Celestun to Rio Lagartos
  • Hurricane Watch:
    • Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico from Rio Lagartos to Cabo Catoche
    • Florida Gulf Coast from Chokoloskee to the mouth of the Suwannee River, including Tampa Bay
    • Dry Tortugas
  • Storm Surge Watch:
    • Florida Gulf Coast from Flamingo to the Suwannee River, including Charlotte Harbor and Tampa Bay
  • Tropical Storm Warning:
    • Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico from Rio Lagartos to Cancun
  • Tropical Storm Watch:
    • Florida Gulf Coast from Flamingo to south of Chokoloskee
    • Florida Gulf Coast north of the Suwannee River to Indian Pass
    • Lower, Middle, and Upper Florida Keys, including Florida Bay

Discussion and Outlook:

As of 400 AM CDT, the center of Hurricane Milton is located near latitude 22.1 North and longitude 92.6 West. The hurricane is moving east-southeast at around 8 mph (13 km/h). It is forecast to gradually shift eastward today before turning northeast on Tuesday and Wednesday.

On its projected path, Milton will likely pass near or north of the Yucatan Peninsula today, cross the eastern Gulf of Mexico, and approach the west coast of Florida by Wednesday.

Milton’s sustained winds are near 100 mph (155 km/h), and the hurricane is expected to intensify further into a major hurricane later today.

Hazards Affecting Land:

  • Storm Surge:
    • Florida Gulf Coast: Surge may reach 8-12 feet from Anclote River to Englewood, including Tampa Bay.
  • Rainfall:
    • Expected rainfall of 5 to 10 inches, with isolated areas receiving up to 15 inches across portions of the Florida Peninsula and the Keys. This heavy rainfall could result in significant flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas. Stay informed about local conditions.
  • Winds:
    • Hurricane conditions are expected along the Yucatan Peninsula, with hurricane conditions possible in parts of Florida by Wednesday. These conditions could include strong winds capable of damaging structures and trees. Ensure loose items are secured, and be prepared for possible power outages.
  • Surf:
    • Dangerous surf and rip currents are expected along the Gulf Coast, making beach conditions hazardous.

Stay tuned to local forecasts and advisories as Hurricane Milton continues to develop. It’s crucial to prepare for life-threatening conditions in affected areas. Taking proactive measures can help keep you safe during the storm.