Hurricane Milton Intensifies to Category 5, Heads Towards Florida Coast

On October 8, 2024, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported that Hurricane Milton has intensified to a Category 5 storm as it approaches the western coast of Florida. The hurricane is expected to reach the Tampa Bay area by late Wednesday, bringing severe weather conditions to the region that is still reeling from the impact of a previous storm.

The NHC has categorized Hurricane Milton as “extremely dangerous” due to its strength and trajectory towards Florida. The meteorological conditions in the affected zone are expected to worsen starting this afternoon, according to the latest information provided by the Center.

In anticipation of the storm, the Mexican National Water Commission (Conagua) and national meteorological services have issued a forecast for intense rainfall in Yucatán, ranging from 75 to 150 liters per square meter, and significant rainfalls of 50 to 75 liters in areas such as Campeche and Quintana Roo.

Strong wind gusts ranging from 80 to 100 km/h are expected, along with high waves of 2 to 3 meters and a potential for waterspouts along the Yucatán coast. In the northern coasts of Quintana Roo, wind speeds of 70 to 90 km/h are anticipated while other regions like northern Campeche could experience winds of 40 to 60 km/h and waves measuring 1 to 2 meters in height.

Governor Mara Lezama of Quintana Roo has reported no casualties or injuries in the primary tourist destinations of the Mexican Caribbean, and has declared a “white balance” indicating minimal damage as the hurricane moves away from Mexican shores. The alerts issued for the region during the storm’s passage have been lifted during a ceremony marking the state’s 50th anniversary.