Tropical Storm Milton: Will the storm strengthen and hit the Tampa Bay Area?

TAMPA, Fla. – Tropical Storm Milton has the potential to develop into a dangerous hurricane that could hit Florida's west coast with damaging winds, life-threatening storm surge and torrential rain during the work week.

According to the National Hurricane Center, Milton is expected to quickly become a hurricane by Monday and reach Florida on Wednesday. The National Hurricane Center now predicts that Milton will make landfall around the Tampa Bay Area at or near strong hurricane strength.

READ: Governor DeSantis declares a state of emergency ahead of Tropical Storm Milton

According to the National Weather Service, hurricanes of Category 3 and above are considered major hurricanes due to their potential for significant loss of life and damage.

According to FOX 13 News meteorologist Nash Rhodes, it is still too early to predict Milton's exact track.

READ: Sandbag sites are opening across the Bay Area in preparation for Tropical Storm Milton

When will it rain in the Bay Area?

Hurricane and storm surge watches are expected to be required in parts of Florida on Sunday.

Long before the storm actually makes landfall, waves of heavy rain are forecast across central and southern Florida starting Sunday. According to the NHC, heavy rains more directly related to the system are expected later Tuesday into Wednesday.

How much rain will we get?

Beginning late Tuesday or Wednesday, portions of the west coast of the Florida Peninsula face an increasing risk of life-threatening storm surge and wind impacts.

The NHC says rainfall totals of 5 to 8 inches, locally up to 12 inches, are expected through Wednesday night in parts of the Florida Peninsula and the Keys.

There is a risk of flash flooding, urban and regional flooding and minor to moderate river flooding.

READ: Tampa is preparing for the next storm and continuing recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene

Sandbag areas

Ahead of the storm, several sandbag locations opened across the Bay Area. For more information click here.

How should you prepare for the storm?

Rhodes says now is the time to check what evacuation zone you are in. Click here to find your evacuation zone.

West Coast Florida residents should also ensure the following:

• Water
• Eat
• First aid kit
• radio
• flashlight
• Batteries
• Recipes and baby needs
• Important documents and personal items
• Tool set
• Toiletries
• Clothing
• Pet supplies
• Checkout

FOXWeather.com contributed to this story.

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