Breaking News: Hurricane Milton Upgraded to Category 5

TNW News - Breaking News Staff

Hurricane Milton Intensifies to Category 5: Florida Braces for Catastrophic Impacts

Hurricane Milton has rapidly strengthened into a Category 5 hurricane with sustained winds of 161 mph, posing a significant threat to Florida’s west coast. Milton is expected to make landfall mid-week, bringing widespread devastation across the Florida peninsula as it exits the east coast still as a hurricane. Evacuations are underway in many areas, and residents are urged to prepare immediately.

Prepare Now—Don’t Rely Solely on the Cone

Floridians should not focus only on the forecast cone. Impacts like heavy rain, life-threatening storm surge, and extreme winds can extend far beyond the storm’s center. Local officials have issued evacuation orders, and it is crucial to follow them without delay. The storm’s path could shift, and all residents within Milton’s potential impact zone should be ready.

Statewide Emergency and Resource Information

Photo byGovernor Ron DeSantis

The state of emergency now covers all counties in Northeast Florida as preparations ramp up. Part of the state's response effort is also focused on debris removal following Hurricane Helene. Crews deployed to other states after Helene have been called back to assist with Hurricane Milton preparations.

For official updates, visit the Florida Division of Emergency Management at FloridaDisaster.org. To check if you are in an evacuation zone, use the Know Your Zone tool.

TNW Weather Operations Fully Mobilized for Coverage

TNW’s Hurricane Operations Division, led by General Manager Todd Nardone, is monitoring Hurricane Milton around the clock. The TNWWeather.com team and TNW News Breaking News staff will provide continuous updates as the storm approaches. Stay informed through TNWWeather.com and our social media platforms for real-time reports, preparedness tips, and safety advisories.

Impacts on Florida’s First Coast

Milton’s impacts are expected to begin affecting the First Coast by Wednesday evening, with the most severe conditions lasting through Thursday morning. Putnam and Flagler counties are forecasted to experience some of the worst conditions, with wind gusts potentially reaching 70 mph. Rainfall totals could exceed 12 inches, leading to inland flooding, and coastal areas may face storm surge up to 4 feet.

Storm Preparations

All residents should finalize preparations by Tuesday. Secure outdoor objects, trim weak tree branches, and ensure that any structures vulnerable to wind and rain are reinforced. Power outages, property damage, and dangerous flooding are highly likely.

Stay Tuned for Updates

TNW News and TNWWeather.com will be with you every step of the way, providing the latest information and guidance to keep you and your loved ones safe. Follow our live coverage as Hurricane Milton nears Florida’s shores.

TNW News – Keeping You Informed