Tropical Storm Milton – Update #1 – 10/5/24

University of Florida officials are actively monitoring Tropical Storm Milton, which is expected to impact the west coast of Florida by midweek. While the storm’s exact path is unclear, here is what we know today:

The National Hurricane Center began issuing advisories on Saturday after the system became better organized overnight. Models are suggesting the storm will strengthen into a hurricane by Monday as it makes its way over the Gulf of Mexico.

As of the 11 a.m. advisory on Saturday, forecasters expect the storm to be “at or near major hurricane strength” by the time it reaches the west coast of Florida. Storms that are capable of producing wind speeds that are the equivalent of Category 3 or above are considered “major hurricanes” by National Hurricane Center.

Because the system is in its infancy, the storm’s exact track and arrival time is unclear. However, forecasters said there is an increasing risk of life-threatening storm surge and wind impacts for portions of the west coast of Florida by midweek. A Flood Watch has been issued for portions of western central Florida – which include Pinellas, Citrus and Hillsborough counties.

As of Saturday afternoon, no tropical storm watches or warnings had been issued for any portion of the state of Florida. However, all UF units statewide – especially in the west coast of Central Florida – should closely monitor forecasts and follow guidance from local officials.

Students, faculty and staff should use the next few days to prepare, including reviewing their emergency kit. Additional preparedness information is available at https://emergency.ufl.edu/get-ready.

UF will continue to monitor and update all on expected impacts or operational changes as information becomes available. Regularly check the UF homepage for updates. Any announcements regarding operational changes will be made through official UF channels, including the UF Alert Emergency Notification System.

For additional information, please visit the National Hurricane Center.

Additional information:
Here’s how to prepare for hurricane season
Pre-storm preparation for students in UF housing
UF/IFAS Disaster Preparation & Recovery

This update was posted on Oct. 5 at 3:45 p.m.