Hurricane Milton Breaks Records In Florida

Rain begins to fall ahead of the arrival of Hurricane Milton in Tampa, Fla., Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Florida is currently experiencing a tumultuous storm season, with Hurricane Milton marking a significant event by becoming the first hurricane to pass within 50 miles of Tampa in a century. This powerful storm reached wind speeds of 180 mph, making it the strongest hurricane ever recorded so late in the season in the Gulf of Mexico. In fact, Hurricane Milton is now tied for the sixth-strongest hurricane in the entire Atlantic Basin for this year.

Adding to the impact, Hurricane Milton is the third major storm to hit Florida in 2021, a record that was last matched in 2005. The state has already weathered hurricanes Debby and Helene before facing the wrath of Milton. Furthermore, this storm is the fifth Gulf hurricane to make landfall this year, tying with the years 2005 and 2020 for the second-most landfalls, only behind the historic year of 1886.

Hurricane Milton reached wind speeds of 180 mph, the strongest late-season hurricane in the Gulf.

Hurricane Milton passed within 50 miles of Tampa, a rare event in a century.

Milton is tied for the sixth-strongest hurricane in the Atlantic Basin for the year.

The intensity and frequency of hurricanes hitting Florida this year underscore the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of extreme weather events. Residents and authorities alike must remain vigilant and ready to respond to the challenges posed by these powerful storms.