NASA astronaut captures Hurricane Milton's fury from space
A NASA astronaut has shown what Hurricane Milton looks like from space as it approaches Florida, and the view is striking. This hurricane, one of the strongest forces ever recorded in the Gulf of Mexico, is expected to impact the region on Wednesday or Thursday.
8:42 AM EDT, October 9, 2024
Hurricane Milton, described by forecasters as an "extremely powerful force," is set to strike Florida midweek. The National Hurricane Center warns of storm surges reaching up to 16 feet.
Following the declaration of a state of emergency in dozens of Florida counties, evacuations have commenced. Residents are crowding highways and interstates, fleeing from the impending storm.
Milton seen from space
NASA astronaut Matthew Dominick, aboard the International Space Station, shared a video recorded as the ISS flew over the hurricane's centre.
American media outlets describe the video as "dramatic," showcasing the "unimaginable force and expanse of the hurricane."
Evacuation underway
Hospitals and healthcare facilities on Florida's Gulf Coast, still dealing with Hurricane Helene's aftermath, are bracing for Milton's arrival.
According to Steve McCoy, head of the medical oversight office in Florida's health department, this effort is referred to as the "largest evacuation in history."
The strongest force in 100 years
President Joe Biden has urged Tampa residents to evacuate, warning that the hurricane about to hit the region will be the strongest force in a century.
Tampa Mayor Jane Castor stated bluntly that anyone who does not decide to evacuate would most likely die.
Milton is also expected to cause widespread flooding, with predictions of 5 to 10 inches of rain in mainland Florida and the Keys and up to 15 inches in some areas.
