Hurricane Milton Approaches Florida, Threatening Tornadoes and Catastrophic Damage : Poised to be Among the Most Devastating Storms in History
Hurricane Milton will ramp up in intensity throughout the day Wednesday, placing several cities at risk of experiencing tornadoes, the Storm Prediction Center (SPC) warns.
More than 3 million people across parts of central and southern Florida are now at an enhanced risk (or Level 3 of 5) for severe thunderstorms, including the cities of Fort Myers, Sarasota and Melbourne, the SPC said. Several tornadoes – including those rated EF 2 or higher – are possible in this region.
“As Hurricane Milton moves across the Florida Peninsula today, several tornadoes will be likely across parts of the central and southern Florida Peninsula, into the Florida Keys,” warns the SPC. It added, “A strong tornado or two could occur during the mid to late afternoon.”
A slight risk for tornadoes (or Level 2 of 5) surrounds the enhanced risk area and spreads from southern Florida to central Florida. The area is home to more than 10 million people and includes Miami, Tampa and Orlando. Tornadoes are the main threat.
Hurricane Helene spawned more than 30 tornadoes in the Southeast, but Milton’s tornado threat will likely be contained to Florida.
