Florida Bracing For Another Hurricane Threat After Helene's Devastation

Hurricane Nicole takes aim at Florida's Atlantic coast

Less than 10 days after Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc in Florida, the state is now facing the potential impact of another hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico.

Tropical Storm Milton rapidly formed in the western Gulf on Saturday morning, just hours after being classified as a tropical depression by the National Hurricane Center. This marks the 13th named storm of the season, ahead of the usual schedule which typically sees this milestone reached by October 25.

Forecasters predict that Milton will intensify rapidly as it moves eastward to northeastward across the Gulf of Mexico, potentially reaching major hurricane strength by the time it makes landfall on the west coast of the Florida Peninsula mid-week. Current projections suggest it could hit Florida as at least a Category 2 hurricane.

Hurricane watches and storm surge watches are expected to be issued for parts of the Florida coast on Sunday, with a significant storm surge anticipated for areas recently impacted by Helene. The National Hurricane Center warns of heavy rains in Mexico and Florida, with the potential for localized flooding.

Milton rapidly formed in the Gulf, expected to intensify into a major hurricane.

Florida faces potential impact of Tropical Storm Milton after Hurricane Helene.

Forecasters predict landfall on Florida Peninsula as at least a Category 2 hurricane.

Helene, which struck Florida's Big Bend as a Category 4 storm on September 26, left a trail of destruction spanning 500 miles, resulting in catastrophic flooding, damaging winds, and widespread power outages. The storm claimed over 200 lives across six states, with authorities fearing the death toll may rise.

The latest storm forecast indicates widespread rainfall totals of 4 to 6 inches across much of Florida, with isolated areas possibly receiving up to 10 inches by Thursday. Cities like Tampa, Melbourne, Jacksonville, Naples, and Fort Myers have already experienced above-average rainfall this year.

There is a growing risk of storm surge for the western Florida Peninsula by late Tuesday or Wednesday, along with the potential for damaging winds, tornadoes, and waterspouts next week. Residents in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, the Florida Peninsula, the Florida Keys, and the Bahamas are advised to closely monitor the situation over the weekend and into early next week for any potential impacts.