As Hurricane Milton nears Central Florida, residents are being urged to prepare for the storm’s impact. Expected to make landfall as a Category 3 hurricane, Milton is projected to bring severe weather, including strong winds and heavy rainfall. The National Hurricane Center has issued both hurricane watches and warnings across the state, but what do these alerts mean? Understanding the difference is critical for preparation.

Hurricane Watch vs. Hurricane Warning

  • Hurricane Watch: A watch means hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are possible within the next 48 hours. This gives residents time to prepare, monitor updates, and be ready to take action if a warning is issued.
  • Hurricane Warning: A warning means hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours or less. This indicates an immediate threat, and residents should finalize preparations, seek shelter, and follow evacuation orders if necessary.

Tropical Systems and Hurricane Categories

Tropical storms and hurricanes are categorized based on wind speeds. Understanding these categories helps gauge the potential intensity of a storm:

  • Tropical Depression: Wind speeds of 38 mph or less.
  • Tropical Storm: Wind speeds between 39 and 73 mph.
  • Category 1 Hurricane: Wind speeds between 74 and 95 mph; minor damage possible.
  • Category 2 Hurricane: Wind speeds between 96 and 110 mph; moderate damage expected.
  • Category 3 Hurricane: Wind speeds between 111 and 129 mph; major damage, especially to homes and trees.
  • Category 4 Hurricane: Wind speeds between 130 and 156 mph; catastrophic damage expected.
  • Category 5 Hurricane: Wind speeds over 157 mph; devastation to communities and infrastructure.

Milton’s Path and Expected Impact

Hurricane Milton briefly reached Category 5 strength before weakening slightly overnight. Forecasters expect it to make landfall along Florida’s west coast as a Category 3 hurricane, arriving early Thursday morning, bringing hurricane-force winds and heavy rain, with the worst conditions expected between 1 a.m. and 1 p.m. Thursday.

Residents are advised to stay informed, finalize their storm preparations, and take shelter as Milton approaches. The Osceola Emergency Operations Center is on full alert, ready to assist residents throughout the storm.