Tornadoes Developing as Category 3 Hurricane Milton Approaches Florida
Weather | 1 MIN AGO
Officials have warned the storm is expected to be catastrophic and deadly.

Tornadoes are beginning to form as Hurricane Milton approaches Florida’s west coast. Though the storm has been downgraded to a Category 3, emergency officials are warning that the conditions remain life-threatening, with tornado activity, devastating winds, and storm surges expected to reach up to 12 feet.

Live Radar: When Will Hurricane Milton Hit Florida?

6 MINS AGO
Residents across the state are closely tracking Hurricane Milton’s path. The storm, moving at approximately 10 mph, is predicted to make landfall near the Tampa Bay area later tonight. Its slower speed has increased concerns, as it could allow more time for storm surge and rainfall to accumulate, leading to extensive flooding and prolonged tornado threats.

Breaking News: Governor DeSantis Prepares Florida for Hurricane Milton

By TNW News - Breaking News Staff | Updated October 9, 2024, Wednesday 6:14 PM CDT

Governor Ron DeSantis has been actively overseeing preparations ahead of Hurricane Milton's landfall. Earlier today, he visited logistics staging areas in Lake City to meet with emergency teams. Over 50,000 linemen are strategically positioned across the state to respond to power outages, while state and local emergency personnel are fully deployed. "We pray for their safety as they do their jobs," Governor DeSantis said, emphasizing gratitude for the response efforts.

Major Theme Parks Close Ahead of the Storm

In anticipation of Hurricane Milton, Florida’s iconic theme parks—Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando—have temporarily closed. Walt Disney World shut down its parks at 1 p.m. today, with Universal Orlando Resort following suit by 2 p.m. Popular events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Halloween Horror Nights have been canceled for the remainder of the week. Guests are urged to stay informed through official websites for reopening information.

Hurricane Milton's Projected Path and Potential Impacts

While Hurricane Milton is now classified as a Category 3 storm with sustained winds of 125 mph, it remains a serious threat. The storm is forecasted to bring severe flooding, widespread wind damage, and dangerous tornado outbreaks as it hits the Tampa Bay area. Catastrophic storm surges of up to 12 feet could impact coastal areas, putting millions at risk.

Evacuation Warnings and Preparation Efforts

Led by Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie, state officials continue to issue evacuation warnings for those in high-risk zones. Evacuation orders are in effect for Nassau, Clay, and several other counties. Residents in low-lying areas and flood-prone regions are urged to evacuate before Hurricane Milton’s outer bands make travel hazardous.

TNW News Hurricane Coverage and Safety Tips

TNW News, under the leadership of Hurricane Operations Division Chief Todd Nardone, is providing live coverage and real-time updates across TNWWeather.com, X, Threads, and Instagram. Residents are encouraged to monitor the storm closely, stay informed about the latest forecasts, and follow evacuation orders promptly.

Final Preparations

As the storm’s landfall nears, residents across Florida should complete their preparations immediately, securing homes and properties. For further updates on evacuation routes, use the Know Your Zone tool, and for additional safety information, visit FloridaDisaster.org.

Stay connected with TNW News for the latest updates as Hurricane Milton approaches.

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