Tampa Bay Braces for 15-Foot Storm Surge as Hurricane Milton Approaches

As Hurricane Milton barrels toward Florida’s Gulf Coast, experts warn that Tampa Bay could face storm surges as high as 15 feet, leaving millions at risk of severe flooding and devastation. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported on Monday that the storm, now a Category 5, could trigger catastrophic surges from the Anclote River to Englewood, with additional areas along Florida’s western coast seeing up to 10 feet of flooding.

The NHC emphasized that a mix of storm surge and high tide will flood normally dry coastal areas, pushing water inland and turning roads, neighborhoods, and businesses into lakes. If the current forecast holds, Tampa Bay could see the highest water levels in over a century.

Here’s what we know:

• Storm surge could peak at 15 feet in Tampa Bay, a historically high level that would devastate the region.

• Hurricane Milton is the second major storm to hit Florida in just two weeks. Hurricane Helene, a Category 4, caused 7-foot surges and killed 12 people near Tampa.

• Officials have issued evacuation orders, opened shelters, and Florida’s Republican Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency across dozens of counties. Tolls have been suspended to speed up evacuations.

Hurricane Milton is expected to make landfall as early as Wednesday evening or Thursday morning. While the storm may weaken slightly before hitting land, it remains one of the most powerful hurricanes to approach Florida in recent memory. If it stays on its current track, it will likely become the worst storm Tampa has seen in over 100 years.

Governor DeSantis and local officials have moved swiftly, urging millions of residents to heed evacuation warnings. In addition to state efforts, President Joe Biden has declared an emergency to unlock federal resources to assist Florida’s hurricane response. Given the immense storm surge and potential damage, these emergency measures will be critical in protecting lives and property.

With memories of the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene still fresh, Floridians know too well the devastation such storms can cause. Milton may well dwarf Helene’s impacts, as forecasts suggest double the water surge in some areas. Tampa and surrounding regions face an unprecedented threat, and residents must take every precaution as the hurricane approaches.

Stay updated on evacuation zones and be prepared for what could be a historic and dangerous storm.

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