Milton is now a Category 5 hurricane, South Florida on alert
DORAL, FL – As Milton fast approaches as a category 5 hurricane, according to Monday’s 11 am report, most of Florida’s Gulf Coast is under a hurricane or tropical storm watch.
On Sunday evening, Gov. Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency in 51 counties, including Miami-Dade and Broward, although initially the emergency was only activated in 35.
According to the latest report, the eye of the storm will cross ashore near Sarasota sometime late Wednesday, but, at this time, is not possible to calculate the exact landfall location pending more projections from the National Hurricane Center.
What has already been stated is that Tampa Bay region, including Bradenton, could see 8 to 12 feet of surge. Areas just to the south and north, including Naples, could see 5 to 10 feet.
Some mandatory evacuations have already been ordered in Manatee, Pasco and Pinellas counties as the state prepares for what it could be the “largest evacuation we have seen since, most likely, 2017 Hurricane Irma”, reports the Miami Herald, according to the Director of the Florida Department of Emergency Management, Kevin Guthrie.
The National Hurricane Center stated on Monday Milton is now a category 5 hurricane with winds up to 140 kts/160 mph from latest recon data.
South Florida, according to the projections, will likely experience heavy rains and possible floodings through Thursday.
As Milton is being monitored, authorities advise to protect your home by covering windows, securing doors and loose items, determining sheltering options and considering your pets, and following evacuation orders. More information here.
Several South Florida sites are organizing sandbag distribution events to help residents prepare for possible floodings. Residents can receive up to four bags per household and the drive-thru service is available from 7 a.m. until bags run out.
Distribution sites in Miami-Dade County to prepare for Milton:
– Amelia Earhart Park: 401 E 65th St, Hialeah, FL 33013
– Oak Grove Park: 690 NE 159th St, Miami, FL 33162
– Gwen Cherry Park: 7090 NW 22nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33147
– Tropical Park: 7900 SW 40th St, Miami, FL 33155
– Larry and Penny Thompson Memorial Park and Campground: 12451 SW 184th Street, Miami, FL 33177
– Homestead Air Reserve Park: 27401 SW 127th Ave, Homestead, FL 33032
– Tamiami Park: 11201 SW 24th St, Miami, FL 33165
– Greynolds Park: 17530 W Dixie Hwy, North Miami Beach, FL 33160
– Ives Estate Park: 20901 NE 16th Ave, Miami, FL 33179
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