Hurricane Milton Causes Rare Reverse Storm Surge in Tampa Bay: Residents Warned to Stay Away
Staff Editor Rare Reverse Storm Surge Empties Tampa Bay as Hurricane Milton Makes Landfall
Tampa Bay residents witnessed an unusual phenomenon as Hurricane Milton made landfall near Siesta Key, Florida, as a Category 3 storm. A reverse storm surge temporarily drew water out of the bay, exposing typically submerged areas along the coastline.
Video evidence captured along Bayshore Boulevard showed a significant recession of seawater, revealing areas of the bay floor that are normally hidden beneath the waves. This rare occurrence, known as a reverse storm surge, is caused by strong offshore winds forcing water out of coastal bays.
Peter Stempel, a landscape architecture professor, described the event as a temporary effect. “The water will return,” Stempel explained, emphasizing the transient nature of the phenomenon.
The Florida Division of Emergency Management issued urgent safety warnings, cautioning residents against venturing onto the exposed bay floors. Officials stressed the life-threatening danger posed by the potential rapid return of water to these areas.
As Hurricane Milton made its presence felt, meteorologists expressed concern about potential storm surge impacts on Pinellas County and other coastal regions. Storm surge warnings were issued for various parts of Florida, highlighting the serious nature of the threat.
The full extent of the water recession remained uncertain due to nighttime conditions limiting visibility. However, the event has already captured public attention, with additional footage emerging of a massive 28-foot wave inside Hurricane Milton.
As the situation continues to develop, authorities urge residents to stay informed and adhere to all safety guidelines issued by local emergency management officials.
