Florida ports are gearing up for Hurricane Milton

Tampa’s port is preparing for Hurricane Milton, which is rapidly intensifying and could reach Category 5 status as it approaches Florida.

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Port Tampa Bay announced on Sunday that it is closely monitoring the storm, now a Category 4, and collaborating with local and state agencies. The port has activated its weather advisory group to assess potential impacts on operations and waterways.

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Heavy rain is expected across Florida from Monday through Wednesday night, with forecasts predicting 5 to 10 inches in some areas, and up to 15 inches in isolated spots, leading to significant flooding, according to the National Hurricane Center.

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The hurricane center described Milton’s rapid intensification as "remarkable" and expects it to strengthen to Category 5 later on Monday. Although some weakening may occur before it hits the Gulf Coast, it will still be a life-threatening storm.

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Possible landfall locations range from Cedar Key to Fort Myers, as indicated by the National Weather Service in Tampa Bay.

Meteorologists anticipate storm surge levels up to 12 feet in Tampa Bay, the highest on record, if the storm's center strikes near the city.

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President Joe Biden approved an emergency declaration for Florida on Monday, facilitating assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

The U.S. Coast Guard warned that the port could experience gale-force winds within 48 hours, though operations were running normally on Monday.

“Port Tampa Bay is taking all necessary steps to prepare for Hurricane Milton to ensure the safety of life, protect the environment, and maintain the resiliency of maritime commerce,” the port stated.

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Cruise operations are expected to be affected.

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Tampa International Airport plans to suspend operations at 9 a.m. Tuesday, and the Peter O. Knight, Tampa Executive, and Plant City airports will also close.

Port Panama City, Seaport Manatee, Port St. Pete, the Jacksonville Port Authority, and Port Canaveral are expecting gale-force winds but remained open on Monday.

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According to supply chain monitoring firm Resilinc, Milton is likely to significantly impact the aerospace, life sciences, general manufacturing, oil and gas, and freight sectors.

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Mandatory evacuation orders were issued on Monday for Charlotte and Hillsborough counties. The Tampa Bay weather service is urging residents to finalize their hurricane preparations in the next two days.

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