As Hurricane Milton approaches the West Coast of Florida, the Miami Broward One Carnival Host Committee is reassuring the community, patrons, and supporters that the South Florida region, while experiencing rain, is not expected to take a direct hit from the storm.
The committee is actively monitoring weather updates and will provide timely information if any operational changes are necessary.
Florida’s storm-battered Gulf Coast is racing against a Category 5 hurricane, with workers scrambling to clear heaps of appliances and other debris left over from Hurricane Helene two weeks ago. Highways are clogged with people fleeing ahead of the storm, and evacuation orders have been issued in several areas.
The center of Hurricane Milton could make landfall on Wednesday in the Tampa Bay region, which has not experienced a direct hit from a major hurricane in more than a century.
While scientists expect the storm to weaken slightly before landfall, it could retain hurricane strength as it moves across central Florida toward the Atlantic Ocean. This trajectory may largely spare other states still recovering from Helene, which resulted in at least 230 fatalities from Florida to the Appalachian Mountains. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis emphasized the importance of clearing debris from Helene ahead of Milton’s arrival to prevent any projectiles during the storm.
Forecasters are warning of a potential 8- to 12-foot storm surge in Tampa Bay and widespread flooding, with rainfall amounts ranging from 5 to 10 inches in mainland Florida and the Keys. Some areas could see as much as 15 inches of rain.
“Our primary concern is the safety and well-being of our attendees, performers, and the community,” said a representative from the committee. “In the event of any changes, we will make prompt announcements to ensure everyone has sufficient time to adjust their plans.”
The committee also addressed circulating false reports on social media claiming that Miami Carnival 2024 has been canceled, stressing that this information is not true. They encourage everyone to rely on official social media channels and their website for accurate updates regarding all Miami Carnival activities.
As preparations for the celebration continue, attendees are advised to stay informed about potential flight changes or delays due to the hurricane. Travelers should check with their airline and hotel accommodations to ensure their plans remain current.
The committee extends its thoughts and prayers to the communities on Florida’s West Coast and those in the potential path of Hurricane Milton.
For the latest updates, visit the official website at miamicarnival.org and follow the committee on Twitter and Instagram @MiaBroCarnival, as well as on Facebook at Miami Broward One Carnival.
