As Hurricane Milton intensifies, many are closely monitoring its path, but there’s another indicator to watch—Jim Cantore’s location. The well-known Weather Channel meteorologist has become a symbol of severe weather, and his arrival in a community often signals the storm’s potential severity, according to the New York Times.
Cantore announced on Monday that he was headed to Tampa, despite the storm’s projected path currently showing landfall near Cedar Key, stretching across Florida’s Big Bend region to the southwest coast by Wednesday night. This announcement sent waves of concern through the area, as Cantore’s presence is often associated with the worst of natural disasters.
A popular Facebook page, “Tracking Jim Cantore,” keeps followers updated on his movements. Cantore recently reported from Florida’s Big Bend when Hurricane Helene hit near Perry on Thursday, September 26. Now, with Hurricane Milton reaching Category 5 status, packing 160 mph winds as it moves toward Florida’s Gulf Coast, his movements are being closely watched again.
Currently, Bradenton is under a hurricane watch, storm surge watch, and flood watch. In response to the impending threat, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency for 54 counties, including Manatee and Sarasota.
Cantore took to X to share his concerns about Hurricane Milton, writing, “#Milton continues well on its way to a strengthening hurricane that will have Helene winds and maybe more at its peak. The hurricane should weaken before landfall, but push a very strong windfield with power outages well inland from west to east due to the angle of approach.”
His post sparked a flurry of comments, with many expressing worry about his presence in Tampa. One commenter noted, “If Jim is in Tampa, then you know it will be bad. Safe travels, Jim.” Another urged residents, “Tampa people, @JimCantore is heading your way. Better evacuate now.”
As Hurricane Milton barrels toward the Gulf Coast, residents are bracing for impact, keeping a close watch not only on the storm’s trajectory but also on Cantore’s location. The storm, already classified as a Category 5, is expected to bring significant power outages and strong winds far inland. With officials and meteorologists issuing warnings, communities in the affected areas are preparing for what could be a challenging few days ahead.