BULLETIN: Hurricane Milton Advisory No. 11

NWS National Hurricane Center, Miami, FL

400 PM CDT Mon Oct 07, 2024

Hurricane Milton Poses an Immediate and Extreme Threat to Florida’s West Coast

Residents Urged to Follow Local Officials’ Orders

Summary:

Location: 21.8N 90.8W (80 miles WNW of Progreso, Mexico; 675 miles SW of Tampa, Florida)
Maximum Winds: 180 mph (285 km/h)
Movement: East at 10 mph (17 km/h)
Minimum Central Pressure: 905 MB (26.73 inches)

Key Warnings Issued:

  • Storm Surge Warning: From Flamingo to the Suwannee River, including Tampa Bay and Charlotte Harbor.
  • Hurricane Warning: From Bonita Beach to the Suwannee River, including Tampa Bay.
  • Tropical Storm Warning: South of Bonita Beach to Flamingo, including all Florida Keys, Lake Okeechobee, and northward to Indian Pass.
  • Storm Surge Watch: From Sebastian Inlet, FL, to Edisto Beach, SC, including St. Johns River.
  • Hurricane Watch: Along Florida’s east coast from the St. Lucie/Indian River County Line to the mouth of the St. Marys River.

Discussion:

Hurricane Milton, now a Category 5 storm (the most severe category), poses a significant threat with sustained winds of 180 mph and higher gusts. The hurricane is moving eastward and is expected to approach Florida’s west coast by Wednesday. Residents along the Gulf Coast should take all necessary precautions, as storm surges of up to 15 feet are possible, along with significant rainfall and flash flooding.

Storm Surge Predictions:

  • Anclote River to Englewood: 10-15 feet
  • Tampa Bay: 10-15 feet
  • Englewood to Bonita Beach: 6-10 feet

Urgent Action:

Residents in affected areas should prepare for life-threatening conditions and follow evacuation orders. This storm has the potential for catastrophic damage. It is crucial to stay updated with your local authorities for the latest instructions.