Storm Milton is expected to strengthen as it approaches Florida, where a state of emergency has been declared in 35 counties due to the recent devastation from Storm Helene, which left at least 14 dead and over 225 fatalities across the southeast. Milton may bring heavy rainfall and life-threatening hazards to the already hard-hit Gulf Coast.
Storm Milton is poised to strengthen as it approaches Florida, raising significant concerns following the recent devastation caused by Storm Helene. Currently located off the coast of Mexico, the National Hurricane Center has issued warnings indicating that Storm Milton could intensify rapidly and pose life-threatening hazards to areas along Florida’s Gulf Coast, particularly affecting 35 counties where a state of emergency has been declared by Governor Ron DeSantis. Ten days ago, Florida suffered considerable loss from Storm Helene, which was characterized as the deadliest storm on the mainland since Hurricane Katrina in 2005, resulting in at least 225 fatalities and leaving hundreds missing. Amid ongoing recovery efforts, Storm Milton has maximum sustained winds of 60 mph (95 km/h) and is expected to bring heavy rainfall from Sunday into Monday, with projections indicating potential rainfall amounts of 5-8 inches (127-203 mm), and in some locations, up to 12 inches (304 mm). These conditions may lead to flash flooding and river flooding across the state. As this new storm approaches, the state grapples with the extensive clean-up from the previous hurricane, which could take years according to federal assessments. Furthermore, significant portions of the infrastructure remain damaged or closed off, complicating aid efforts to the affected regions. The severity of Storm Helene, which struck as a category-four hurricane, continues to echo, as recovery efforts remain insufficient due to the scale of destruction.
In the context of Florida’s recent weather-related challenges, Storm Milton emerges shortly after the catastrophic aftermath of Storm Helene, which wreaked havoc across the Southeast United States, particularly impacting Florida and neighboring states. The declaration of a state of emergency illustrates the heightened preparedness for Storm Milton, underscoring the urgency involved in addressing potential hazards from the new storm. The National Hurricane Center’s forecasts often serve as critical governmental resources for assessing storm threats, maintaining public awareness about impending dangers, and facilitating strategic disaster response and recovery efforts.
In summary, as Florida braces for the impending threats posed by Storm Milton, the situation remains critical in the wake of Storm Helene’s devastation. The state has instituted emergency measures, and authorities are keenly aware of the potential for severe weather and flooding. Continued vigilance and proactive response will be essential to safeguard lives and expedite recovery efforts in the aftermath of recent storms.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
