As Hurricane Milton approaches the west coast of Florida, winds are intensifying in the region. The center of the hurricane is now just 50 miles away from Sarasota, leading to strong gusts and sustained winds along the coast.
According to the National Hurricane Center, a sustained wind speed of 58 mph and a gust of 77 mph were recorded at the mouth of Tampa Bay in the Egmont Channel in the last hour. These powerful winds are indicative of the increasing strength of the storm as it moves closer to land.
Several other areas along the coast have also experienced significant wind gusts. In Venice, a top wind gust of 68 mph was reported, while St. Petersburg recorded a gust of 66 mph. Clearwater experienced winds of up to 61 mph, and Sarasota reported gusts reaching 60 mph.
Residents in these areas are advised to stay indoors and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. As Hurricane Milton continues to approach, it is crucial to stay informed about the latest updates and follow any evacuation orders or warnings issued by local authorities.