Storm Alert: Tropical Storm Milton Expected to Strengthen in Gulf, Possible Impacts for Savannah

Storm Alert: Tropical Storm Milton Gaining Strength in the Gulf

As we kick off the week in Sunny Savannah, there’s some news brewing down in the Gulf of Mexico—Tropical Storm Milton has officially formed and is making its way toward us. This is something to keep an eye on!

What We Know So Far

Milton is forecasted to strengthen quite a bit as it moves over warm waters in the Gulf. Experts believe it’s likely to become a hurricane when it approaches the Florida Peninsula this coming Wednesday morning. How does that affect us here in Savannah, you ask? Well, we’re expected to feel some of its impacts starting Wednesday and running into Thursday. But before you start panicking, let’s take a breath! The good news is that the expected impacts are not anticipated to be severe.

Wind and Weather Updates

Emily McGraw, a meteorologist from the Charleston office of the National Weather Service, shared that there could be some gusty winds depending on how close the storm gets to our area. As of Saturday, there’s about a 10% chance that we might experience tropical-storm-force winds here in Savannah. So, it’s best to be prepared, but also not overly worried.

For those of you planning to hit the coast, bear in mind that the storm might whip up some strong rip currents off the Georgia coast as it heads into the Atlantic. Stay cautious if you’ve got beach plans!

Rain and Sunshine Predictions

Moving on to the skies, the outer bands of Milton may bring some rain to Savannah. However, as of Saturday afternoon, weather predictions are showing only a 20% chance of showers on Wednesday and Thursday. Doesn’t sound too alarming, right? Plus, our friends over in Augusta can expect windy conditions as well on the same days, but they’re also in for some sunny skies.

Hurricane Warnings

Now, let’s talk about Milton’s future. The National Hurricane Center has indicated that the storm could rapidly intensify within the next 36 hours. By early Monday, it might be at or near major hurricane strength—which includes Categories 3, 4, or 5—when it finally makes landfall on the west coast of Florida. This could bring life-threatening conditions for parts of Florida’s coast, so those living in affected areas should be on high alert!

Milton is expected to hang out in the southwestern Gulf of Mexico until Sunday night before it makes its way across the south-central Gulf on Monday and Tuesday. After that, it’ll approach the Florida Peninsula, likely impacting our region once it moves northeast.

What to Do Next?

As we watch the storm’s progression, it’s crucial to stay informed and plan ahead. While Savannah may not face the brunt of Milton’s force, it’s wise to keep an eye on local updates, prepare your emergency kits, and secure loose outdoor items if necessary. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!

Stay tuned, Savannah, as we will keep you updated on all developments surrounding Tropical Storm Milton. Let’s keep our fingers crossed and hope for minimal impacts. And regardless of the weather, let’s remember to take care of each other. Until next time!