ThHurricane Milton weakened from a Category 5 to a Category 4 storm early Tuesday but is still classified as “extremely dangerous,” with maximum sustained winds near 155 mph as it approaches Florida.
Orlando International will cease commercial operations at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, respectively, while remaining open for emergency flights until it is safe to resume commercial services. Orlando EI121@14:00 from Dublin to Orlando on Wednesday and Inbound EI120 on Thursday are cancelled.
Milton is expected to make landfall as a Category 3 hurricane, potentially causing record storm surges and flooding throughout Florida, particularly in the Tampa area.
Evacuation orders have been issued for several counties along Florida’s west coast, including Charlotte, Citrus, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, and Pasco.
Other airports in the region are temporarily closing ahead of the hurricane, with Tampa International Airport halting operations at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport closing at 12:30 p.m., and Sarasota Bradenton International Airport closing at 4 p.m.
Cruise Lines change itineraries
Major cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Celebrity Cruises, have altered ship itineraries and advised passengers to remain updated as port closures and operational changes are anticipated due to the storm’s arrival.
The U.S. Coast Guard has implemented Port Condition Yankee for various ports, indicating the likelihood of gale-force winds, with specific ports like Port Tampa Bay and PortMiami facing immediate adjustments.
Passengers are encouraged to sign up for text alerts from Carnival for real-time updates, while Margaritaville at Sea is adjusting schedules and providing credit options for passengers who cannot reschedule their trips.
