Hurricane Milton impacts Florida as storm surge assessments continue

The impacts of Hurricane Milton are still being assessed, with about a month and a half remaining in the Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends by the end of November. When Milton made landfall in Florida, significant storm surges of up to 4.5 meters were anticipated. However, the actual flooding turned out to be less severe than expected, and Milton has since moved back out to sea.

According to preliminary measurements from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), water levels rose by as much as three meters in parts of Florida due to Milton. Just weeks prior, Hurricane Helene also caused notable increases in sea levels.

Storm surges during hurricanes pose significant risks, often resulting in more fatalities than the winds themselves. NOAA indicates that storm flooding is the leading cause of death during hurricanes in the United States.

Meteorologist Aleksi Lohtander explained that storm surges occur due to two primary factors: wind and air pressure. Strong winds push ocean water toward the shore, and the low pressure at the storm’s center allows water levels to rise further. The effect of storm surges can intensify if they coincide with regular high tides.

Hurricane Milton also brought heavy rain, with St. Petersburg receiving a record-breaking 46 centimeters on Wednesday. For comparison, heavy rainfall during a storm in Finland reached only 52.7 millimeters, a fraction of Milton’s totals.

Storm floods are capable of inflicting extensive damage to buildings and infrastructure along the coast and inland. With storm surges potentially reaching dangerous levels, the potential for destruction remains a serious concern for Florida’s communities.