As Hurricane Milton makes its way through the Gulf, coastal Georgia residents should prepare for the possibility of severe weather later this week.

While the current forecast suggests the storm’s center will stay west of the state, coastal areas are likely to experience wind and rain starting late Wednesday, October 9, and continuing into early Thursday.

The Details: Hurricane Milton, currently a Category 4 storm, packs sustained winds of 155 mph, moving east-northeast at 12 mph, according to the National Weather Service. As of early Tuesday, the storm was positioned in the Gulf of Mexico near the Yucatán Peninsula.

Current forecasts show the hurricane tracking northward toward the Gulf Coast, with potential impacts stretching as far as the Carolinas by the weekend. While a direct hit is not expected in Georgia, the storm’s outer bands could reach the coastal areas.

If Milton takes a more northern route, parts of coastal Georgia, including areas around Savannah and Brunswick, could experience tropical storm conditions with wind speeds exceeding 39 mph and periods of heavy rainfall. Even in a best-case scenario with the storm remaining to the south, residents can still expect gusty winds and intermittent showers late Wednesday and into Thursday.

Why It Matters: With the storm likely to pass close to the Georgia coast, there’s a chance of coastal flooding, especially during high tide. Local governments are also monitoring the situation closely for the potential issuance of a tropical storm warning in the coming days. While major evacuations are not expected at this time, residents should stay informed as the storm approaches.

How You Can Help: Coastal Georgia residents are advised to stay updated on the storm’s path through local news and weather services. Simple steps such as securing loose outdoor items, checking emergency kits, and ensuring electronic devices are fully charged can help mitigate disruptions. Additionally, residents with homes in low-lying areas should have a plan in place in case localized flooding occurs.

What’s Next: Hurricane Milton is forecasted to weaken slightly as it approaches the Gulf Coast, but it is still expected to bring heavy rain and wind to the region. The National Weather Service will issue updates on the storm’s path and expected impacts. Residents should monitor these updates and prepare for the possibility of tropical storm warnings as early as Wednesday morning.