Residents of the Tampa Bay region in Florida are bracing for the impact of Hurricane Milton, a powerful storm that is predicted to bring catastrophic storm surge. Former Federal Emergency Management Director, Craig Fugate, warns that the storm surge from Milton could be much worse than what was experienced during Hurricane Helene, which caused significant damage despite not making a direct hit on the region. The potential storm surge is predicted to reach 15 feet, posing a major threat to low-lying areas near the mouth of Tampa Bay.
Storm surge is the level at which sea water rises above its normal level during a storm. It is important to note that storm surge does not include the wave height above the mean water level of the surge itself. A 15-foot storm surge at high tide, combined with 10-foot waves, can potentially level buildings, knock down bridges, and cause widespread destruction. The Tampa Bay region, including cities like St. Petersburg and barrier islands, is at risk of significant flooding and devastation if Hurricane Milton brings the predicted storm surge.
If Hurricane Milton makes landfall in the Tampa Bay region, it could have a catastrophic impact on the 3.3 million residents living in the area. The threat of storm surge extends beyond Tampa Bay, reaching as far north as the Big Bend region and as far south as Naples and the Florida Keys. Cities like Sarasota, Venice, Fort Myers, and Naples could also face severe damage if the storm hits to the south of Tampa Bay. This region has not experienced a direct hit from a major hurricane in over a century, making the threat of Hurricane Milton even more concerning.
State and local governments are working to remove debris left behind by Hurricane Helene, but the cleanup efforts may not be able to clear all the debris before Hurricane Milton arrives. There is concern that the wind and surge from Milton could turn debris into dangerous projectiles, causing additional property damage and posing a threat to residents. While the storm could potentially weaken before landfall, Fugate emphasizes that storm surge is not directly tied to wind strength and can still cause significant damage even if the storm weakens slightly.
Fugate warns that residents in the path of Hurricane Milton should listen to local weather services and the hurricane center for updates on the storm’s impacts. The Tampa Bay region is filled with creeks, canals, and rivers that could exacerbate the effects of storm surge beyond the immediate coast. Fugate stresses the importance of taking storm surge warnings seriously, as the rapid rise of water during a storm can lead to devastating consequences. Despite the potential for weakening, the impacts of storm surge are long-lasting and should not be underestimated. Residents are urged to evacuate and prepare for the worst as Hurricane Milton approaches the Florida coast.
