Hurricane Milton

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Hurricane Milton was a powerful tropical cyclone that affected the Gulf of Mexico and the southeastern United States in October 2024. Initially forming from a tropical disturbance in the western Caribbean Sea, it rapidly intensified over the Bay of Campeche, becoming a Category 5 hurricane with maximum sustained winds reaching 180 mph and a minimum central pressure of 897 mbar, making it one of the most intense hurricanes in the Atlantic basin on record.

Milton's rapid intensification was notable, with a pressure drop of 84 mb in 24 hours, marking it as one of the fastest intensifying storms in the Gulf of Mexico. The hurricane posed significant threats due to its high winds, storm surge, and potential for catastrophic damage upon landfall.

The storm prompted extensive preparations and evacuations in Florida, where it was expected to make landfall. Areas including Tampa Bay were under severe threat, with forecasts predicting storm surges up to 15 feet and mandatory evacuations ordered for millions of residents. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency, and significant efforts were made to coordinate debris management and aid distribution in anticipation of the storm's impact.

Milton's approach led to widespread disruptions, including the closure of airports and the cancellation of flights along Florida's west coast. The hurricane's impact was felt not just in the immediate landfall areas but also influenced broader regional responses, including federal assistance and emergency declarations.