Tropical Storm Milton forecasted to become major hurricane. Here's what Florida can expect.
MIAMI — Tropical Storm Milton formed in the western Gulf of Mexico on Saturday and it is now forecasted to become a major hurricane as it approaches Florida's Gulf Coast.
It could potentially undergo a period of rapid intensification before it makes landfall as a Category 3 hurricane across the west coast of Florida on Wednesday.
On Saturday evening, Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency in 35 counties ahead of Milton's landfall.
As Tropical Storm Milton continues to strengthen in the Gulf, I have issued EO 24-214 ahead of potential landfall on Florida’s west coast this week. This EO declares a state of emergency in 35 Florida counties.
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) October 5, 2024
As many continue to recover from Hurricane Helene, I have directed…
How will Milton impact South Florida?
CBS News Miami's NEXT Weather Team said the track has shifted a little north on Saturday evening toward Tampa and Fort Myers, but it still includes some portions of South Florida, including Broward County and northern inland Miami-Dade County. The storm is expected to speed up and intensify on Tuesday.
South Florida will receive a "one-two punch" with this system, beginning Sunday with a weaker and non-tropical area of low pressure that will swing through the area then and into Monday. This will bring South Florida's first round of heavy rain.
The second "punch" will be Milton, forecasted to arrive Wednesday afternoon, bringing more heavy rain and windy weather.
Depending on its track, Milton could bring tropical storm-force winds and gusts very early Wednesday. For now, South Florida's main threat continues to be the risk of rainwater flooding, with 4"-7"+ looking likely across the area.
Saturday will be a precursor to this stretch of very wet weather, with ongoing rounds of showers and storms set to move through the area. This will prime Florida soils for what will likely be an increasing flood risk set to continue into the week ahead. Expect a flood watch to take effect through Thursday.
Remember: if you see standing water on the roadways, turn around because it only takes a foot of water to float most vehicles.