CNN’s Kate Bolduan demonstrates what a rapid rise in water levels could look like.

Florida

Hurricane Milton has made landfall as a Category Three system, causing tornadoes and widespread damage across parts of Florida.

Hurricane Milton

Hurricane Milton is predicted to cause a significant storm surge, posing a major threat to various parts of Florida. The National Weather Service has forecasted life-threatening storm surges, potentially reaching between 12 to 15 feet in certain areas. Such a surge is notable as it can lead to the inundation of low-lying coastal roads and submergence of vehicles.

Storm surges occur due to strong winds forcing water onshore, resulting in a rapid rise in water levels. As Hurricane Milton approaches, the expectation is for surges that could exceed the height of a city bus, with some locations seeing water levels possibly reach 14 to 15 feet, surpassing the average first floor height of commercial buildings. Key regions at risk include areas south of Tampa, such as Sarasota, Venice, Port Charlotte, and Punta Gorda.

Though exact impacts and locations remain uncertain, preparations are necessary as the potential for historic storm surges looms. Residents and authorities in these areas are advised to stay informed and take precautionary measures.



Milton’s storm surge could reach record-breaking levels

One of the biggest concerns with Hurricane Milton is storm surge. The National Weather Service forecasting life-threatening storm surge levels here. So the basics. A storm surge is a rapid rise in water levels caused by strong winds pushing water onshore. In parts of Florida, we're talking 12 to 15 feet of water from this storm in a surge. And I want to give you an idea of what that really means beyond just the numbers. This shows you a storm surge of about two ft. At this level, low lying coastal roads would be inundated with water. The next stage would be a surge of 5 to 8 ft. This is enough to submerge cars. But remember, Milton is expected to bring much worse storm surge of 10 plus ft in places. And this is taller than a than a city bus. The average first floor of a commercial building is typically around 14 ft high and Milton storm surge could reach a foot higher than that. So it is impossible to know with certainty at this point where this is all going to hit and when. But the places that are facing these catastrophic levels of surge are from Tampa on south. We're talking Sarasota, Venice, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda. This is how high it could get there.

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Hurricane Milton