Huracan Milton

A potential tropical storm, dubbed Invest 99L, is forming in the Caribbean and has a high chance of developing into Tropical Storm Sara within the next few days.Multiple weather models are forecasting Sara to potentially become a hurricane and threaten Florida's Gulf Coast next week, although the track and intensity of the storm remain uncertain. MeteorologyMatters discusses the rarity of November hurricanes, with only three recorded landfalls in the US since 1850, but warn that warm water temperatures in the Atlantic basin are fueling an unusually active hurricane season.

Meteorology Matters addresses Tucker Carlson’s bizarre assertion that abortions cause hurricanes, dismissing scientific explanations for their increased frequency and intensity, and instead linking them to a supposed “human sacrifice.” We examine these claims through a scientific lens, presenting evidence that contradicts their religious justifications and highlights their potential harm in influencing public opinion on scientific and social issues. We look back at televangelist Pat Robertson’s claims over the years that he can control the weather and that God is punishing the U.S. for its inc

Meteorology Matters looks at the potential impact of Donald Trump’s return to the presidency on science and environmental policy. Currently, the Biden administration is trying to solidify its environmental policies, such as those regarding greenhouse gas emissions and vehicle electrification, before Trump takes office. We examine the uncertainty surrounding Trump’s potential return to power and how it might influence scientific research, particularly concerning climate change, vaccine skepticism, and the role of government funding in science. There’s the potential for conflict between Trump’s

Meteorology Matters compares and contrasts the climate change policies of Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. We explore their records on climate change, examining their stances on issues such as the Paris Agreement, renewable energy investment, electric vehicles, and fossil fuel projects. We look at the broader implications of their positions for the future of U.S. climate policy, highlighting their contrasting views on the urgency of climate action and their approaches to clean energy transitions. The candidates' foreign policy platforms, including their views on

Meteorology Matters discusses the possibility of tropical development in the Atlantic basin during the final month of hurricane season. We look at three specific areas of interest: the southwestern Caribbean Sea, the northeastern Caribbean Sea and Greater Antilles, and the North Atlantic. We also emphasize the importance of monitoring these systems as their development and movement could potentially bring heavy rainfall and flooding to various regions.

Meteorology Matters explores the devastating consequences of flooding across the globe, highlighting the increasingly frequent and intense events driven by climate change. We examine how different countries are responding to this challenge, focusing on strategies such as building barriers, adapting to flooding, and relocating communities. We look at the World Weather Attribution report that analyzes the recent flooding in Sudan, concluding that human-induced climate change has significantly increased the likelihood of such extreme rainfall events. There’s been a record-breaking number of flash

Meteorology Matters discusses the flooding of the Withlacoochee River in Central Florida, which has been at its highest levels since 1960 due to excess rainfall during the rainy season and Hurricane Milton. We explain the river's course, how the flooding has impacted local communities, and the efforts by authorities to help residents. We also address concerns from the public about the causes of the flooding and whether water management structures could be used to alleviate it.

Meteorology Matters explorers the rising trend of billion-dollar weather disasters in the United States. NOAA provides a comprehensive overview of the events in 2023, highlighting the record number of disasters and the significant financial and human costs. The Washington Post examines the debate surrounding the role of climate change in this trend. While acknowledging the potential influence of global warming, the article emphasizes the significant impact of population growth and development in hazard-prone areas. a complex set of natural factors and human activity is exacerbating the risks a

Urology matters uncovers the history of hurricanes in Florida, particularly focusing on the significant impact of the 1848 Tampa Bay hurricane. There have been many years with multiple major hurricane landfalls in Florida, highlighting the state's vulnerability to these natural disasters. We also look the 2024 and recent hurricane seasons, analyzing the frequency and intensity of storms in relation to climate change, while also acknowledging that hurricanes are a natural part of Florida's coastal environment. The 1848 Tampa Bay hurricane had devastating effects on the region and its lasting im

Meteorology Matters looks into how HAARP and Cloud Seeding did not create or drive Hurricanes Helene and Milton by providing a review of 43 studies published between 2012 and 2021 that examine conspiracy theories related to weather modification and climate change. The review provides insights into the prevalence, characteristics, and potential consequences of weather and climate change conspiracy theories, as well as exploring the science that debunks those theories. We identify knowledge gaps in existing research, emphasizing the need for greater geographic representation, improved conceptual

Meteorology Matters explores the growing problem of insurance companies failing to adequately cover homeowners after hurricanes in Florida, specifically focusing on issues since a Governor DeSantis supported law change. We highlight the challenges facing homeowners, insurance companies, and policymakers in the wake of increasingly severe weather events. We examine the implications of Florida’s insurance law changes, which are intended to reduce litigation but are further disadvantaging homeowners. Additionally, we talk about the importance of flood insurance and how the lack of adequate covera

Meteorology Matters examines the increasing vulnerability of low-income communities and communities of color to weather impacts, specifically hurricanes. They highlight how these groups are disproportionately affected by storm surges, flooding, and power outages due to their location in high-risk areas and lack of resources for preparedness and recovery. We discuss the need for better federal disaster relief and recovery policies that prioritize these vulnerable communities, including increased funding, streamlined application processes, and more comprehensive climate resilience measures. We a

Meteorology Matters breaks down the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) "50% rule," a regulation that impacts homeowners in flood-prone areas. This rule states that if a home (structure itself excluding the land) sustains damage exceeding 50% of its market value, it must be brought into compliance with current floodplain management standards, usually by elevating the structure. The rule is designed to discourage rebuilding vulnerable properties in flood zones and prevent the government from bearing the cost of repeated damage. The sources explain the details of the rule, how it is app

Meteorology Matters examines the impact of hurricanes and extreme weather on residential buildings. Many Europeans believe their older buildings are stronger than American’s when in reality they’re not engineered to handle extremes, while survivorship bias may play a role in their perception. While many think the “Three Little Pigs” are the end all and be all of tough building examples, engineering plays a vital role in how those materials actually perform. Wood can actually perform better than concrete if it’s engineered better than brick for example. We analyze different building materials

We debunk the claim that Hurricanes Helene and Milton were artificially engineered or manipulated by the government, HAARP, or other individuals or groups. Experts in meteorology, geoengineering, and atmospheric research confirm that the technology needed to control or create hurricanes does not exist. They attribute the intensity of these storms to natural processes, emphasizing the role of climate change in intensifying hurricanes. We further expose the spread of misinformation online, particularly among right-wing influencers and accounts, highlighting the potential dangers of these unfound

Joseph Malinowski, is the Florida man who went viral for his decision to ride out Hurricanes Helene and Milton on his small sailboat. He was dubbed "Lieutenant Dan" after the character in Forrest Gump because he was missing a leg among other similarities with the movie character and garnered considerable attention online. While he initially received support and even donations, Malinowski was eventually arrested for trespassing and failing to appear in court. We detail his legal troubles, as well as the concerns of his daughter who fears the attention will negatively impact her father.

Florida is facing a number of issues related to the insurance market and hurricanes. Insurance premiums are at an all-time high, with many homeowners facing an increase of up to 400%. The recent hurricanes, Helene and Milton, have caused billions of dollars in damage, further straining the insurance market. Some insurers are raising rates, while others are pulling out of the state entirely, leading to a shortage of insurance options. This is leading some homeowners to sell their properties at a loss, while others are hesitant to buy homes in Florida due to the risk of hurricanes. Despite the c

The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) has published a report titled “Rating the States” that evaluates the building code enforcement and administration systems, as well as contractor licensing practices in the 18 Atlantic and Gulf coast states most vulnerable to hurricanes. Each state is assigned a score from 0 to 100 based on the state’s adoption, implementation, and enforcement of building codes designed to minimize windstorm damage. The report highlights states with the most effective building code systems, identifies areas for improvement, and emphasizes the importance

We explore the phenomenon of king tides and their increasing impact on coastal cities, particularly Miami. King tides are naturally occurring high tides that occur during specific lunar phases, amplified by the sun's gravitational pull. We discuss how these tides, exacerbated by rising sea levels due to climate change, are causing frequent sunny-day flooding in Miami and other coastal areas. We highlight the growing threat of these floods to infrastructure, businesses, and the overall well-being of coastal communities. The need can’t be emphasize enough for proactive planning and investment in

We examine the mental health consequences of hurricanes, specifically focusing on the hurricane fatigue, prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression in hurricane-affected populations. We highlight the compounding effects of repeated hurricanes on mental health, as well as the role of environmental factors like green space and social support in mitigating those effects. We also provide recommendations for individuals and communities on how to cope with hurricane-related stress and trauma, and emphasize the importance of seeking professional help when needed.

Federal emergency response personnel in North Carolina were temporarily relocated due to reports of an "armed militia" threatening government workers involved in Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. Misinformation and rumors have been spreading throughout the affected areas, resulting in hostility towards federal agencies and a decline in the acceptance of aid offered by FEMA and the Forest Service. These incidents have also resulted in harassment and threats directed at federal employees. “Around 1 p.m. Saturday, an official with the U.S. Forest Service, which is supporting recovery efforts aft

The sources discuss the impact of Hurricane Helene on the housing markets in Florida, particularly in the Tampa Bay area. Several articles note that, following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene and previous hurricanes, home prices tend to increase, as wealthier buyers move in and take advantage of the reduced housing supply. However, this influx of wealthier buyers can displace longtime residents, causing a shift in the social fabric of the community. The articles also highlight the challenges faced by homeowners with limited resources and how insurance rates and government assistance

Hurricane Milton is poised to severely impact Florida's already struggling property insurance market. This comes after the state faced record-breaking insurance costs and several insurance company failures, leading to the rise of Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, a non-profit that provides coverage to homeowners unable to find it in the private market. The state has been trying to stabilize the market through legal reforms and by encouraging private insurers to return, but Milton's potential devastation could push prices higher and further strain the system. Although Florida's real esta

Advancements in hurricane forecasting with the introduction of the ECMWF EC-AIFS, a new artificial intelligence model does incredible job with Milton prediction. It boasts significantly higher accuracy compared to other models, predicting the landfall of Hurricane Milton with an error margin of only 13 miles. We emphasize the model's potential to save lives, resources, and time by pinpointing the most accurate landfall location. Additionally, the importance of continuously improving forecasting skills by analyzing past predictions and current atmospheric conditions to make the most informed de

World Weather Attribution examines the effects of climate change on Hurricane Milton, which recently made landfall in Florida. The report from WA analyzes the hurricane's intensity, rainfall, and wind speeds, concluding that climate change significantly increased the likelihood and intensity of the storm. The report also discusses the impact of Hurricane Milton on Florida's infrastructure and preparedness, highlighting the vulnerability of low-income and minority communities. It then provides an overview of the effects of climate change on hurricanes globally, emphasizing the growing trend of

Claims are circulating on social media that former President Donald Trump is offering free lodging at his properties, including Mar-a-Lago, to Trump supporters displaced by Hurricane Milton. There are various posts from social media users, some claiming that Trump is offering shelter and others stating that the claims are false. It also includes a statement from a representative of Trump National Doral, saying that the hotel is fully booked. Do you think the claims about free lodging for Trump supporters at Mar-a-Lago are true?

We explore the spread of misinformation surrounding hurricanes, particularly the recent Hurricanes Helene and Milton.A Broward County School Board member has been spreading false claims about FEMA's response to Hurricane Helene, including that the agency was withholding aid and diverting funds. There are harmful effects of misinformation, specifically focusing on meteorologists who are facing threats and harassment from individuals who believe the government controls weather events. This misinformation is amplified during times of political polarization and heightened anxiety, particularly dur

The aftermath of Hurricane Milton, which hit Florida yesterday, and its impacts on different parts of the state will be memorable for years to comeThe storm's three phases, with intense tornadoes in the first phase, storm surge in the second, and strong winds and heavy rain in the third highlight that Hurricanes are not always one dimensional. The accuracy of the National Hurricane Center's forecasts, particularly for the storm's track were phenomenal, but challenges in predicting rapid intensification still exist. Florida hurricanes can come rapid fire, and while that’s not new, sea level ris

Hurricane Milton is expected to make landfall on the West Coast of Florida, bringing with it the threat of dangerous storm surge, strong winds, and heavy rainfall. The National Hurricane Center has issued warnings for the entire Florida peninsula, urging residents to prepare for the storm by evacuating low-lying areas, securing their homes, and stocking up on essential supplies. The storm's impact is expected to be particularly severe in the Tampa Bay Area and Southwest Florida where the surge could reach up to 13 feet. With saturated soil from the preceding rain, the storm is expected to caus

SummaryHurricane Milton is headed for the state of Florida and we dissect the analysis of the potential storm surge impact, drawing comparisons to Hurricane Michael's landfall in 2018. Counterclockwise rotation of hurricanes, the storm surge is significantly lower on the left side of the eye (north side in Milton's case). Two scenarios are presented, one with Milton making landfall north of the Skyway Bridge and the other with Milton making landfall south. Meteorologist Bryan Bennett, who came up with this analysis gives us surge heights for various locations under both scenarios, highlighting

Hurricane Milton, a rapidly intensified to a Category 5 hurricane yesterday, and is expected to make landfall on Florida's west coast late Wednesday/Early Thursday. The storm is predicted to cause significant storm surge, especially in the Tampa Bay area, with potential for flooding up to 15 feet above normal. The storm's forecast increase in size will also produce widespread strong winds and heavy rainfall, increasing the risk of flash flooding. The local emergency managers have issued evacuation orders for areas in the path of the storm, and it is imperative that residents heed these warning

With Hurricane Milton, approaching Florida here are flood specific tips to help you out. Partial list at the bottom…A survivor of Hurricane Ian's flooding shares valuable advice based on their experience. They emphasize proactive measures to prepare for potential flooding, such as raising valuables off the floor, securing important documents, and preparing essential items like flashlights, medication, and pet supplies. The source also provides post-flood guidance, focusing on prioritizing safety, organizing debris, and meticulously documenting repair expenses. It stresses financial responsibil

Florida officials urge residents to take necessary precautions, such as checking their evacuation zones, preparing disaster supply kits, and finding a safe place to stay. They also emphasize the importance of leaving early to avoid traffic congestion and delays, noting that it may also take several days to return home after the storm passes. Milton is now a category three major hurricane with winds of 120 mph and is still expected to continue strengthening. Although unfavorable upper level winds may cause the storm to weaken prior to landfall, 12 foot storm surge is still a deadly concern. Rem

Hurricane Milton, currently over the Gulf of Mexico, is intensifying and projected to become a major hurricane. The hurricane is forecast to make landfall on the west coast of Florida, potentially bringing life-threatening storm surge, damaging winds, and heavy rainfall. Residents in the Florida Peninsula are advised to monitor the storm's progress and follow the guidance of local officials.

Sunday afternoon update on Hurricane Milton, which is rapidly intensifying in the Gulf of Mexico. Details on the hurricane's current location, movement, and projected path, indicating that it is expected to become a major hurricane and approach the west coast of Florida by midweek. Hazards, including storm surge and heavy rainfall which could lead to flooding, and dangerous surf conditions along the Gulf Coast are a concern especially near and south of the landfall location. Points to the north of the center of circulation could see stronger wins and rain then on the so-called “dirty side“ whi

As Milton heads toward Florida, here’s some guidance on preparing for the storm, particularly focusing on the potential dangers associated with lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles. Understanding and mitigating the risks of battery fires, especially when vehicles are damaged by floodwaters is important to your safety. Will give you some tips on food storage, water conservation, and securing important documents. We highlight the importance of having a plan for evacuating, staying safe, and ensuring access to essential services in the aftermath of a storm.

Tropical Storm Milton is strengthening rapidly in the Gulf of Mexico and is forecast to become a major hurricane by the middle of the week. The storm is expected to make landfall on the west coast of Florida, bringing the potential for life-threatening storm surge and damaging winds. Heavy rainfall is also expected to affect portions of Florida, leading to the risk of flooding. The storm's exact track and intensity remain uncertain, but there is growing concern about the potential for significant impacts on the Florida Peninsula.

Tropical Storm Milton is another rapidly developing tropical disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico that is expected to strengthen into Hurricane Milton and make landfall on the West Coast of Florida as a Category 2 hurricane around Wednesday. The forecast emphasizes the potential for significant storm surge and heavy rainfall, urging residents of Central and South Florida to stay informed and prepared. While the exact path and intensity of the storm are uncertain, remember that the effects can be for reaching from the center of the storm at landfall. There's also the increasing likelihood of a dan

Hurricane Helene is a major disaster that highlights the growing economic risks associated with climate change. While the financial impact of the hurricane is significant, with estimates reaching over $100 billion with long-term implications for communities, businesses, and individuals. Climate change will increasingly lead to "known unknowns" - events that we know will happen but cannot predict their exact timing or location. Adaptation, investing in preventative measures, and the need for governments and companies to take proactive steps to mitigate the financial and social consequences of t

There’s a hidden danger of toxic chemical releases from industrial facilities during hurricanes. Limited disclosure requirements and insufficient public information about these risks leave communities unprepared and unaware of the potential consequences. Red tide has been detected in Pinellas County waters following Hurricane Helene. This poses an additional health risk for residents already dealing with storm damage and cleanup, as red tide can cause respiratory problems and potentially harm marine life.

Conspiracy theories circulate about Hurricane Helene, which struck Florida in September 2024 and wreaked havoc upon upstate North Carolina. Some theories claim the hurricane was intentionally manipulated to impact Republican areas, while others suggest it was engineered to clear land for lithium mining. We also examine theories claiming the hurricane was created or guided by technology, such as HAARP, frequency transmitters, or cloud seeding. While lithium is on the mind of conspiracy theorist, a real life quartz mining facility has been severely impacted by Helene, which could cause supply ch

A 60 Minutes report on insurer fraud in Florida following Hurricane Ian shows that numerous companies have systematically changed reports in order to deny homeowners of up to 90% of the payment they deserve after catastrophic losses. It focuses on the claims of several licensed adjusters, who allege that insurance carriers were purposefully altering damage reports to reduce payouts to homeowners. These adjusters claim that their reports were edited by desk adjusters who had never even visited the damaged properties, reducing the amount of money the homeowners received. The report alleges that

We explore the devastating floods that hit Asheville, North Carolina, after Hurricane Helene, challenging the city's former reputation as a "climate haven." It explains that climate change is making intense rainfall events more frequent and severe, leaving even high-elevation areas vulnerable. Climate change is exacerbating flooding risks across the United States, including in Appalachia, where the terrain amplifies the impact of heavy rains. We also compare the recent floods to the "Great Flood" of 1916, highlighting the catastrophic devastation caused by heavy rainfall and emphasizing the hi

How to determine flood risk for properties in the United States. Yale Climate brings us tools and resources, categorized by the type of information they provide, and it critiques the accuracy and limitations of each. These tools are essential in an era of increasing flood risk due to climate change. We discuss the new Risk Rating 2.0 system implemented by the National Flood Insurance Program, which aims to ensure future payouts do not exceed premiums.

The 2024 Atlantic Hurricane season began as a beast with Hurricane Beryl setting the stage for what was predicted to be an overactive hurricane season. With an August and early September peak season lull, forecasters were questioning the reasoning for the season bottoming out. Then intro Hurricane Helene. Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida as a category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 140 mph and a storm surge of 20 feet causing not only one of the highest surges seen in the state of Florida, but also some of the highest storm surge ever recorded in the Tampa Bay Area. As a