Severe Weather Alert: Tropical Storm Milton May Intensify by Midweek
Tropical Storm Milton is poised to strengthen into a category 3 hurricane, potentially impacting Florida’s Gulf Coast by Wednesday. This weekend will bring rainfall to Southeast Georgia and Northeast Florida, with associated risks of flooding and rip currents, while the Jaguars game may also see rain.
The local weather forecast for Saturday evening indicates a drop in temperatures to the mid-70s accompanied by mostly cloudy skies and northeast winds at speeds of 5 to 10 miles per hour. Residents of Southeast Georgia and Northeast Florida should prepare for significant rainfall during this period, with expected accumulations of three-tenths of an inch in Northeast Florida and a quarter of an inch in Southeast Georgia. However, along the coast, rain accumulations may reach up to 2 inches over the next three days, while inland areas in Columbia and Alachua counties may receive approximately one-tenth of an inch. Notably, rain chances will persist during the Jaguars game scheduled for 1 p.m. on Sunday. Additionally, the risk of rip currents will remain elevated throughout the weekend, posing hazards for coastal activities. In relation to tropical developments, Tropical Storm Milton is anticipated to rapidly escalate as it advances eastward through the Gulf of Mexico. Milton is predicted to affect the Gulf Coast of Florida, leading to hazardous storm surge and powerful winds that may pose life-threatening risks. Current forecasts suggest that Milton could intensify to a category 3 hurricane by the time it makes landfall on Wednesday afternoon. Residents of Florida are urged to begin preparations, as the projected path may shift. Furthermore, the southeastern regions of Georgia and Florida face flash flood risks estimated between 5% to 15%. The probability of tropical storm-force winds affecting the area ranges from 20% to 50%. Additionally, a tropical wave is predicted to depart from the west coast of Africa on Monday or Tuesday, with some potential for development as it traverses the eastern tropical Atlantic; the formation chance remains at 0% for the next 48 hours, but increases to 30% over the next week.
As the hurricane season progresses, the weather patterns shift significantly due to increased tropical activity. Tropical Storm Milton represents one of the latest developments, warranting serious attention from residents in affected areas, particularly along the Gulf Coast. It is crucial for communities along the path of such storms to remain vigilant and informed of impending weather changes. The report also highlights the local weather conditions leading up to the storm and underscores the risks, including flash floods and rip currents, which require public awareness and preparedness.
In summary, residents of Southeast Georgia and Northeast Florida should be prepared for a rainy weekend, with significant rainfall expected as Tropical Storm Milton approaches. With the risk of life-threatening conditions from storm surge and winds, it is essential for individuals to acknowledge the impending hurricane and take necessary precautions. Monitoring of weather updates is advised as the situation develops.
Original Source: www.news4jax.com
