The Gulf of Mexico is known for its warm waters, with some of the highest temperatures found near the area where Hurricane Milton intensified recently and along Florida's western coast, where it is expected to make landfall. According to hurricane expert Brian McNoldy, the water temperatures along Florida's coast are currently 3.5 to 5.5 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than usual for this time of year.
As Milton approaches land, it is anticipated to encounter less favorable atmospheric conditions that may weaken its intensity. However, the exceptionally warm water in the Gulf has provided significant energy to the storm, potentially allowing it to maintain more strength than initially predicted.
An analysis released recently revealed that the unusually warm water in the Gulf is not merely a coincidence but rather a consequence of climate change. The study indicated that human-induced climate change has dramatically increased the likelihood of such high ocean temperatures, making events like the rapid intensification of Hurricane Milton 400 to 800 times more probable.
