As Florida grapples with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the state faces another challenge with Tropical Storm Milton, projected to intensify into a major hurricane by mid-week. Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency across 35 counties, emphasizing the need for effective search and rescue operations, power restoration, and road clearance.
The National Weather Service (NWS) reports that Milton is currently moving through the western Gulf of Mexico and is expected to cross Florida before entering the Atlantic Ocean. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) warns of potentially deadly consequences for parts of Florida's west coast on Tuesday or Wednesday.
Experts indicate that climate change is increasing the likelihood of rapid storm intensification and more powerful hurricanes, as warmer sea and ocean waters contribute to these extreme weather events.