On Monday evening, Jose Rubiera addressed the looming threat of Hurricane Milton to Florida residents via his YouTube channel. Despite discussing the storm while it was still classified as a Category 5—now downgraded to a Category 4—his warnings remain crucially relevant. Rubiera highlighted the well-defined eye of this powerful system and emphasized its extensive spiral bands stretching both north and south, predicting widespread impacts across the state.
Widespread Impact Beyond the Storm's Center
Rubiera presented various forecast models, noting predictions ranging from north of Tampa to south of Naples. However, he urged against focusing solely on the storm’s projected path, emphasizing the vast area at risk due to its status as a major hurricane. "Focusing on the center is misleading," he explained. "The hurricane affects a broad region, regardless of whether it passes directly over Tampa or nearby."
Rapid Intensification and Climate Change Concerns
Addressing the storm's swift escalation from tropical depression to hurricane, Rubiera described it as an "explosive intensification," a trend increasingly common with recent hurricanes, likely due to climate change. This rapid development was fueled by warm waters in the Gulf of Mexico and favorable atmospheric conditions.
Preparation and Precautionary Measures
Rubiera advised Florida residents to prepare immediately, citing the hurricane's potential to impact areas previously affected by Helene. "Proper preparation is essential to minimize loss of life and property damage, including the threat of massive storm surges reaching up to 16-20 feet. If you are in a flood-prone area or near the coast, evacuate. Follow official guidance," he urged, stressing that while material losses can be recovered, lives cannot.
In recent hours, Hurricane Milton has established itself as an extremely dangerous threat to Florida's peninsula, moving northeast after skirting the Yucatan Peninsula. With sustained winds of up to 155 mph (250 km/h) and even stronger gusts, Milton poses a severe risk to life and property along Florida's west coast. The Miami Weather Service has issued warnings about the impending winds, rains, and storm surges expected to hit the state soon.