**Hurricane Milton Intensifies to Category 5, Florida's Gulf Coast Prepares for Impact**

As Hurricane Milton morphs into a formidable Category 5 storm, Florida's Gulf Coast braces for its imminent arrival. The storm's rapid intensification is unprecedented, transforming at an astounding rate due to the record-warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. While Milton is expected to grow in size, spreading its dangerous impacts over a more extensive area, its category may decrease.

Milton's landfall is anticipated on Wednesday along Florida's Gulf Coast. The eye and eyewall of the hurricane could strike anywhere from Cedar Key to Naples, potentially impacting regions such as Tampa and Ft. Myers. With residents still grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which recently hit as a Category 4, authorities are urging immediate evacuation or preparation.

Jasmine Seales, a Tampa resident, is taking this warning seriously. Living near the Hillsborough River in Evacuation Zone A, Seales has been packing her belongings and securing her home against potential flooding. Having witnessed the destruction caused by Helene, she’s particularly alert this hurricane season.

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell reassures that FEMA has sufficient funds to handle the response for both Hurricane Milton and the ongoing recovery from Hurricane Helene. Criswell emphasizes that FEMA personnel will be present to assist communities in need, even if they aren’t immediately visible.

Travel disruptions are anticipated, with major airlines issuing travel alerts and interstate highways near Tampa experiencing significant backups. Hillsborough County officials have shared aerial views of the crowded interstates, advising drivers to expect extended delays and stressing the importance of timely evacuation.

Tampa Mayor Jane Castor has confirmed that the standstill on the interstates is due to compliance with evacuation orders. She urges any remaining residents to finalize their preparations and leave the city promptly.

Packing sustained winds of 180 mph, Milton has doubled its strength in less than 24 hours, marking it as a particularly dangerous system. Hurricane and storm surge warnings are in effect, with impacts expected within the next 48 hours. As landfall nears, Milton is forecast to weaken slightly but grow larger in size, making it a significant threat.

Pinellas County has expanded its evacuation zones, with mandatory evacuations for zones A, B, and C. Emergency Management Director Cathie Perkins stresses the urgency, recalling the devastation from Helene and predicting Milton to bring even more severe conditions.

Florida's Gulf Coast communities are on high alert, with preparations underway in the face of another potentially catastrophic hurricane.