In recent hours, Hurricane Milton has created challenging conditions across western Cuba as it makes its way towards Florida, where it is expected to make landfall either tonight or early Thursday morning. The hurricane has primarily brought gusty winds, heavy surf, and intermittent showers linked to its feeder bands.
A recent broadcast from Tele Pinar highlighted the continued formation of spiral bands over the western region, as observed by the La Bajada radar. The Tropical Cyclone Advisory No. 9, issued by the Cuban Institute of Meteorology at 6:00 a.m. today, detailed that southern winds ranging from 25 to 31 mph have been recorded in Pinar del Río and Havana. Wind gusts reached up to 51 mph in La Palma, Pinar del Río, and 45 mph in Casablanca, Havana. These conditions are expected to persist for the next 12 to 24 hours, extending from Pinar del Río to Mayabeque.
High Seas and Coastal Flood Threats
Apart from the strong winds, the southern Cuban coast is experiencing significant wave activity. Coastal regions stretching from Pinar del Río to Mayabeque, including the Isle of Youth and the Canarreos Archipelago, are forecasted to face light to moderate coastal flooding. In the coming hours, the Havana seawall will likely start feeling the impact of these surges.
Rain and Thunderstorms
The feeder bands associated with Milton have sparked rain and thunderstorms in various parts of western Cuba. Although these downpours have been sporadic, they could intensify throughout the day, leading to heavy showers in some areas. Cuban meteorological authorities will continue to closely monitor Milton's progression as it moves through the Gulf of Mexico and approaches Florida's western coast.
With maximum sustained winds currently clocked at 155 mph, according to the latest update from the National Hurricane Center, and even higher gusts, this formidable cyclone is advancing northeast at 16 mph. It is positioned approximately 186 miles north of Cape San Antonio.