ATLANTA — Hurricane Milton, a powerful Category 5 storm, is heading toward Florida, with severe weather impacts expected to hit later Wednesday.
The storm is currently packing winds up to 160 mph, forcing major closures, including all Disney World theme parks, through at least Thursday. Many residents are bracing for dangerous conditions, with concerns mounting over leftover debris from Hurricane Helene that could become hazardous projectiles in Milton’s high winds.
What does this mean for Metro Atlanta and North Georgia?
- No direct impacts for Metro Atlanta and North Georgia
- Coastal areas under Tropical Storm Warning
- Clear skies and mild weather expected in Atlanta
While Florida prepares for life-threatening conditions, Metro Atlanta and most of North Georgia will experience minimal direct impacts. Expect clear skies and temperatures in the upper 70s, with no major rain or wind expected for the region. However, coastal areas of Southeast Georgia—including Savannah and Saint Marys—are under a Tropical Storm Warning and may see gusty winds, scattered showers, and elevated tides.
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11Alive is tracking live impacts for metro Atlanta and north Georgia, including travel into the state as Floridians evacuate from the store. Stay tuned for updates.
Tracking Milton | Live Updates - Oct. 9
6 a.m. | Here is our latest update, read or watch below:
This morning, Hurricane Milton has reintensified into a powerful Category 5 storm, and most of Florida is bracing for its impact. The storm is expected to bring catastrophic storm surge, destructive winds, and heavy rain to parts of the state. During a press conference yesterday, Governor Ron DeSantis reiterated evacuation orders for residents in the storm's projected path.
“You should be executing your plan now. If you’re going to get out, get out now,” DeSantis said, warning that time is quickly running out.
Bay Shore Boulevard, Tampa: 11Alive's Angelina Salcedo reports mandatory evacuation orders for parts of Tampa Bay. This region hasn’t seen a direct hurricane hit in over 100 years. However, after experiencing the effects of Hurricane Helene just two weeks ago, many residents are taking this storm more seriously.
Atlanta Motor Speedway, Ga.: Liza Lucas was live in Hampton, where evacuees are already camping out at the Atlanta Motor Speedway. Families from Florida arrived as early as Tuesday, and more are expected as the storm moves closer.
Georgia Preparations: In response to Milton’s path, Governor Brian Kemp has issued a state of emergency for counties in South Georgia and extended the emergency declaration for areas still recovering from Hurricane Helene.
5 a.m. | Here is the latest forecast update for Hurricane Milton and its impacts on Georgia