The Jacksonville area remains in the grip of Hurricane Milton as it moves along the coast, with conditions expected to persist into the evening. According to the National Weather Service, the hurricane has been downgraded from a warning to a tropical storm in parts of Marion County, while other areas continue to face hurricane and storm surge warnings. With the eye of the storm about 140 miles from Jacksonville, sustained tropical storm force winds rage, and gusts may reach hurricane force.
As the storm moves northeast at 18 mph, the local weather service has updated safety advisories, emphasizing the danger remains significant. "Remain well sheltered from dangerous wind having additional significant impacts," the NWS statement warns. The potential effects include significant damage to buildings and infrastructure, with power and communications outages expected in their wake. Residents are firmly instructed to stay indoors, and to ensure they have ways to receive weather alerts.
Storm surge flooding is a prominent threat, particularly in Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia. Surges and strong rip currents are creating hazardous conditions, with waves reaching up to 17 feet in Northeast Florida and 12 feet in Southeast Georgia. "Remain well away from life-threatening surge having additional significant impacts," warns the NWS. The storm surge warning affects areas including but not limited to Coastal Flagler and Coastal St. Johns.
The NWS also cautions against heavy rainfall, which will continue to pose a threat to areas already saturated from previous storms. Extreme rainfall flooding may prompt numerous evacuations and rescues, says the NWS, underscoring that rivers may flood extensively. Local authorities are positioned to respond to these life-threatening conditions. In response to the storm, preparations and precautionary actions are to be followed diligently; this includes sticking to evacuation advice if given by officials.
As the situation develops, the National Weather Service in Jacksonville will provide updates and further information on Hurricane Milton's progress and impacts. The latest advisory suggests minimal risk of tornadoes at present, but the situation can change rapidly. Residents are urged to stay informed through official channels and heed any evacuation orders or safety advice.
