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.
Significant flooding has impacted multiple areas throughout St. Louis, Missouri, causing widespread disruption and damage.
Heavy rainfall over recent hours has led to swollen rivers, overwhelmed storm drains, and flooded streets, leaving parts of the city and surrounding communities submerged.
Many neighborhoods in St. Louis are experiencing road closures as floodwaters make some streets impassable.
Emergency services have been responding to calls for assistance from residents stranded in their homes or vehicles, while local authorities have urged drivers to avoid any roads covered in water. Numerous vehicles have already been abandoned due to stalled engines and rising waters.
Reports indicate that several businesses and residential properties have been affected by water damage, with basements, parking garages, and lower floors flooding in low-lying areas.
In some neighborhoods, floodwaters have reached several feet, posing risks to both property and public safety. Local officials have opened temporary shelters for those displaced by the rising waters, and utility crews are on standby to address potential power outages in affected areas.
The National Weather Service has issued flood warnings for the St. Louis area, advising residents to monitor weather updates and stay alert for any changes in conditions.
Flash flooding remains a concern, as the saturated ground and overwhelmed drainage systems are expected to exacerbate any additional rainfall.
As emergency crews work tirelessly to manage the situation, authorities are urging the public to stay off the roads, seek higher ground if necessary, and remain indoors until conditions improve.
Residents in flood-prone areas have been advised to prepare for potential evacuation and secure belongings that could be affected by water damage.