Hurricane Milton Poses Tornado Threat To Florida Cities

Damage from tornadoes is revealed in the morning light after tornadoes ripped through the Indian Lake area of Logan County

As Hurricane Milton intensifies throughout Wednesday, the Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has issued warnings for several cities in central and southern Florida. More than 3 million people in areas such as Fort Myers, Sarasota, and Melbourne are now at an enhanced risk for severe thunderstorms, with the possibility of tornadoes, including those rated EF 2 or higher.

The SPC cautions that as Hurricane Milton moves across the Florida Peninsula, the likelihood of tornadoes in central and southern Florida, extending into the Florida Keys, will increase. The SPC specifically highlights the mid to late afternoon as a period when strong tornadoes could occur.

Over 3 million people at risk for severe thunderstorms and possible EF 2 tornadoes.

SPC warns of enhanced tornado risk in Fort Myers, Sarasota, and Melbourne.

Tornado likelihood increases as Hurricane Milton moves across Florida Peninsula.

In addition to the enhanced risk area, a slight risk for tornadoes extends from southern Florida to central Florida, encompassing cities like Miami, Tampa, and Orlando. This region, home to over 10 million people, faces the main threat of tornadoes as Hurricane Milton progresses.

While Hurricane Helene previously spawned more than 30 tornadoes in the Southeast, the tornado threat from Hurricane Milton is expected to be concentrated in Florida. The SPC emphasizes the potential for tornadoes, particularly in the central and southern parts of the state.