Milton's Major Mayhem

Hello all,?

I've been in touch (again) with my family, friends, and relatives in Florida regarding the latest hurricane threat, but it's time I sent an email on Hurricane Milton (remember, I don't pick the names...the World Meteorological Organization does!).??

We're still cleaning up from Helene in the Southeastern U.S.? What a horrific hurricane Helene turned out to be and well inland from traditionally smacked areas.? I hate saying this, but Milton might end up being worse!

I expect Milton to continue to rapidly intensify.? As of Sunday evening, top winds at 85 mph (Cat. 1), but I expect Milton to zoom through all the categories between now and Tuesday.? Yes, this means I expect a peak intensity at Category 5 levels with top winds at 160 mph.? BUT, fluctuations in strength are expected (probably due to eyewall replacement cycles), so he may not hit Florida AS a Cat. 5, but easily still a major hurricane.? Unlike Helene, which traveled mainly south to north, Milton will cut across central FL west to east.? This will put all of the central Florida peninsula in a dangerous position.? From Tampa to Lady Lake to Daytona Beach, I fear 100 - 130 mph winds, with embedded tornadoes causing widespread severe wind damage and long-lasting power outages.??

Storm surge flooding is a HUGE threat at the coast, especially for Tampa and neighboring beaches, and potentially at over 22 feet.? At this time, I do NOT see Milton turning up the east coast of the U.S., so this devastating storm will likely only impact Florida.? Please heed the evacuation orders that are soon to come, especially for anyone living in a mobile home.? Folks, I've never wanted to be more wrong about a forecast (except maybe my email about Katrina).? This is the real deal and please take it seriously.? I leave you with the various model predictions on intensity and there is more spread here than there is on the track of the storm.? Contact me with any questions you might have.? Thanks!

Ben