Weather
Hurricane Milton is now forecast to become an extremely dangerous Category 4 before landfall in Florida
Hurricane Milton has undergone rapid intensification, prompting concerns for coastal regions in Florida and Mexico.
Forecasters upgraded Milton from a tropical storm to a hurricane a day earlier than predicted, and it is now expected to strengthen to Category 4 within the next two days.
Currently churning in the Gulf of Mexico with sustained winds of 85 miles per hour, Milton is approximately 805 miles away from Tampa as of Sunday 5 PM ET.
The Mexican government has issued a hurricane watch for the north coast of the Yucatán peninsula, anticipating a storm surge of up to 4 feet.
Rainfall from Milton is expected to be significant, ranging from 5-8 inches across portions of the Florida Peninsula and the Keys through Wednesday night.
This rainfall could lead to flash flooding, urban flooding, and minor to moderate river flooding.
A Flash Flood Watch is in effect for the Florida Peninsula starting Sunday morning. Additionally, a wave of moisture ahead of Milton will bring tropical downpours to the region beginning on Sunday.
While not a complete washout, localized areas could experience heavy rainfall leading to flash flooding.
Areas south of Interstate 4 are particularly vulnerable to significant rainfall due to a front sinking in from the north. Coastal regions should closely monitor weather forecasts and be prepared to receive flash flood warnings.
The anticipated rainfall from Sunday night to Wednesday is expected to range from 3 to 6 inches, with potentially higher totals in isolated areas.
Reports of potential tornado activity have emerged in the Katy Hockley and Bridgeland areas. However, as of now, there have been no calls regarding structural damage or injuries associated with these reports.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
A Dense Fog Advisory is in effect for Southeast Texas from Friday night through Saturday morning. Drivers should exercise caution and be prepared for significantly reduced visibility during the morning commute.
- Spotty rain showers and isolated thunderstorms are possible ahead of an approaching cold front.
- Coastal areas may experience some early storm activity around sunrise, though these storms are not expected to match the intensity of the severe weather experienced on Thursday.
- A cold front will move through the region, bringing scattered storms. While the overall risk of severe weather remains low, there is a 2 out of 5 chance (Slight Risk) for isolated severe storms.
- Residents across Southeast Texas are advised to stay alert, as conditions can change rapidly.
- The line of storms is expected to clear the area by approximately 5:00 PM on Saturday as the front pushes eastward toward Louisiana.
High-pressure systems will move in behind the cold front, providing a calmer and more stable weather pattern. Expect drier conditions and cooler temperatures on Sunday.
- Stay updated with local weather alerts and forecasts.
- Exercise caution while driving during foggy conditions or heavy rainfall.
- Have a plan in place and know where to seek shelter if severe weather develops.
The National Weather Service and local authorities will continue to provide updates as needed. Residents are encouraged to monitor conditions and stay safe throughout the weekend.