Fortunately, Hurricane Milton has weakened (as per NHC forecast) from the powerful Cat 5 yesterday (165 mph) to less than 120 mph today. Just look at the difference in the satellite presentation from 24 hours ago. The classic "donut hole" structure is gone, but there is still a core surrounding the center that is no longer apparent. The top is Milton at his strongest.
Milton's circulation is being hindered by 25-30+ knots of SW wind shear, but the radar views are still quite impressive.
As with Francine & Helene earlier this year, Milton rainfall is north side loaded. That weakening trend has reduced the maximum storms surge, especially for Tampa Bay. The top view is yesterday's predictions with the current forecast below it.
Tampa Bay saw a record 9 foot surge with Helene, and IF Milton's weakening trend continues, perhaps the surge in the Bay will be no worse than Helene's? Here's the 4 PM update from NHC.
Milton's outer eyewall has reached the coast somewhere around Sarasota/Longboat Key. From there southward is where the greatest storm surge should occur.
While we watch this storm from a distance, Milton's circulation has brought down great feeling dry air over us.
We will continue with this dry northerly flow into the weekend.
As you can see, an even stronger cold front arrives late Monday night bringing SWEATER WEATHER to us!!! I was going to wait until after October 20th before I have The Lady sing, but I told her agent today to send her over as we are ready to "Turn out the lights, the 2024 Hurricane season is over for us." Look for her appearance next week. For now, pray for Florida, but from what I'm seeing, Milton's impacts will not be as bad as originally projected. The current tornado threat will be the concern along with surge along the west coast. Stay tuned!
No comments:
Post a Comment