With Hurricane Milton on the horizon, it’s crucial for Tampa residents to prepare and stay informed. This Category 5 storm could have a devastating impact, and we’re here to help you navigate through it safely. Whether you’re in an evacuation zone or staying home, these steps will help ensure your safety.
Hurricane Milton’s Arrival in Tampa
After 103 years of avoiding direct hits, the Tampa Bay area faces a serious threat. Hurricane Milton has been upgraded to a Category 5 storm, and projections show it making landfall as a Category 3 hurricane. The storm is expected to hit Florida’s Gulf Coast late Wednesday, bringing with it severe winds and dangerous storm surge.
What to Expect: Wind, Storm Surge, and More
Forecasters predict “life-threatening storm surge” ranging from 10 to 15 feet in the Tampa Bay area. As of Monday at 6 p.m., Hurricane Milton was moving east-southeast at 10 mph, with sustained wind speeds of 180 mph. This is a powerful storm that will require serious preparation to avoid the worst outcomes.
Stay Updated on Hurricane Milton
For the latest on the storm’s path, you should monitor updates from the National Hurricane Center (NHC). The NHC releases new forecasts every six hours—at 5 a.m., 11 a.m., 5 p.m., and 11 p.m. These updates will provide essential information about the storm’s direction, strength, and potential impact on the Tampa Bay area.
We also recommend signing up for Alert Tampa and Alert Pinellas. These emergency alert systems will provide updates on evacuation orders, shelter locations, and other critical information as Hurricane Milton approaches.
Know Your Evacuation Zone
If you’re unsure which flood zone you live in, you can look up your address using Hillsborough County’s flood zone map or Pinellas County’s equivalent resource. Knowing this information is key to staying safe during the storm, as it determines whether you need to evacuate.
If you are ordered to evacuate, follow the instructions immediately. First responders may not be able to reach you if conditions worsen, and the aftermath could leave debris piling up in the streets, making rescue operations nearly impossible.
Preparing Your Home for the Storm
If you’re staying home, there are several steps you should take to stay safe during Hurricane Milton:
- Turn off your breaker to prevent potential electrical fires during flooding.
- Freeze water bottles to keep your freezer cold longer in the event of a power outage.
- Keep your emergency kit, food, and essentials in an easily accessible location.
After Hurricane Milton Passes
Once Hurricane Milton has passed, it’s important to stay inside until the storm surge has receded. Flooded streets are dangerous, and driving on them can cause your vehicle to stall or even catch fire. Similarly, walking pets on these flooded streets can be hazardous due to downed power lines, snakes, or hidden debris.
If you come across a downed power line, report it immediately to Tampa Electric at 888-223-0800 or Duke Energy at 800-228-8485. Safety should always be your top priority.
Cleaning Up After the Storm
The combination of strong winds and heavy rain from Hurricane Milton is likely to leave your yard in disarray. Make sure to clear fallen tree limbs, leaves, and other debris to prevent it from damaging your lawn. Both Tampa and St. Pete offer pickup services for storm debris, so take advantage of those resources.
Staying Informed and Safe
For expert advice, you can follow local meteorologist Denis Phillips on Instagram and Facebook. He provides valuable insights into storm behavior and offers practical tips for weathering the storm.
After returning home or getting your bearings post-evacuation, the cleanup process begins. From debris removal to FEMA applications, there will be plenty of work to do. Rest assured, we’ll be here with additional information to help you through it.
Stay Safe, Tampa Bay
While Hurricane Milton is a serious threat, preparation and awareness are key to ensuring the safety of you and your loved ones. Follow the latest updates, heed evacuation orders, and take all necessary precautions to protect yourself and your property.
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