TNW News Operations Center Hurricane Division
Bolton, Monday, October 7, 2024
Operations General Manager, Chief of the Hurricane Operations Division: Todd Nardone
4:00 AM CDT

#BREAKING: NOAA Hurricane Hunters have confirmed that Hurricane Milton has rapidly intensified into a Category 3 major hurricane, bringing a serious threat to parts of Florida’s west coast later this week.

Key Messages - Advisory 8: 4:00 AM CDT, Monday, October 7, 2024

1. Hurricane Milton is now a Category 3:
   Dangerous hurricane conditions are expected along the northern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula today, with a storm surge and damaging waves along portions of the northern Yucatan as Milton continues to rapidly strengthen in the Gulf of Mexico.
2. Life-Threatening Storm Surge and Wind Impacts for Florida:
   Storm Surge and Hurricane Watches are now in effect for parts of Florida’s west coast. Residents should prepare for life-threatening conditions beginning Tuesday night or early Wednesday. Follow all advice from local officials regarding evacuation and ensure that you are ready to take action if you're in a watch area.
3. Heavy Rainfall Threat in Florida:
   Even before Milton makes landfall, heavy rainfall is impacting parts of Florida, increasing the risk of flash flooding, urban flooding, and river flooding through Tuesday and Wednesday.

For more information, visit Hurricanes.gov.

Additional Thoughts from Todd Nardone:

The rapid intensification of Milton over warm Gulf waters is a significant concern as the storm heads toward Florida, with life-threatening impacts expected mid-week.

Landfall Probabilities:
The current forecast shows the highest probability for landfall between Hernando Beach and Everglades City, which includes potential paths through Tampa Bay and Southwest Florida. We expect models to further refine the storm's exact track over the next 24-48 hours, allowing us to provide more precise local impact predictions.

Surge Concerns:
Storm surge will be one of the most dangerous aspects of this storm. Areas near the southern half of the eyewall face the highest risk of surge, while locations north of the storm may initially see water pushed away, followed by flooding after the storm passes. Each mile of difference in landfall location will greatly affect surge levels.

Preparation Reminders:
Residents under a Storm Surge or Hurricane Watch should finalize preparations immediately. Gather essential supplies, secure your home, and be ready to evacuate if instructed by local authorities. It is crucial not to wait until the last minute.

Stay Tuned:
I will guide you through this storm with ongoing, clear updates via WINK News and TNW News LLC platforms, including our YouTube channel (TNW News LLC), our website (tnwweather.com), and our X (formerly Twitter)accounts:

• x.com/TNWNews
• x.com/TNWNewsLLC

For additional inquiries or updates, our Breaking News Desk and Hurricane Division teams are available via our X accounts or email. We will continue to provide real-time updates and keep you informed.

Stay safe, stay prepared, and check back frequently for the latest developments.

For more details, visit the NHC Hurricane Milton page.