Extreme rapid intensification, powerful winds, heavy rainfall, tornado threats, and high storm surge. This hurricane packs it all.
Milton made landfall in Siesta Key at 8:30 pm on October 9, 2024, as a massive and powerful category 3 storm.
STAY SAFE.
As the storm continues to plow through Florida after entering through Siesta Key, Milton may potentially retain hurricane status as it crosses the full width of Florida.
The damage currently taking place is indescribable.
Winds are currently blasting at 115 MPH with gusts much higher than that.
There are confirmed reports of tornadoes touching down since earlier today – including wedge tornadoes which have the potential to reach EF4 and EF5 status.
Storm surge is already high – over 8 feet – and pounding away in the Sarasota area.
Rainfall and strong winds – gusts well into the mid 100s – are slamming into houses and businesses. These powerful winds have the potential to push water inland, causing flooding further from the coastline. These powerful winds are also creating intense wave activity in regions hit by Milton’s storm surge.
Landfall occurred in Siesta Key – near Sarasota, Florida – but the effects of this massive storm are being felt throughout the West Coast and Central Florida.
Storm surge is pouring into coastal communities near the area of landfall.
Power outages in the state have reached 1.2 Million+ with more expected to come.
As far Southeast as West Palm Beach, Florida residents are experiencing dangerous conditions with a potential tornado touch down. There was a confirmed tornado in Broward county earlier today.
There is a real isolated tornado threat.
Stay away from windows and doors and stay indoors. Listen to local authorities.
Tornadoes have the potential to cause even more localized damage than hurricanes.
Please stay safe as we all brace through the storm. Listen to local authorities.
