Weather
Milton is now forecast to become a Category 5 hurricane later today
Hurricane Milton is on the brink of becoming a Category 5 hurricane. The northern Yucatán Peninsula, from Mérida to Cancún, should prepare for immediate and severe impacts as the storm passes just offshore.
Hurricane Milton has undergone an extraordinary intensification over the past 24 hours, increasing its wind speeds by a remarkable 90 miles per hour.
This rapid intensification is only surpassed by the record-breaking hurricanes Wilma (2005) and Felix (2007).
Milton is projected to become the second Category 5 hurricane of the season by this evening.
Given its increasing strength, preparations in Mexico should be finalized immediately to ensure the safety of residents and communities in the affected areas.
This is a developing story that will be updated when more information is available.
DENVER, CO — The National Weather Service (NWS) in Denver has issued a Tornado Warning for southwestern Logan County and north-central Washington County in northeastern Colorado, effective until 5:45 p.m. MDT Friday.
At 5:11 p.m., weather spotters confirmed a tornado on the ground near Merino, approximately 11 miles southwest of Sterling, moving southeast at 20 miles per hour.
The storm system is producing a dangerous and damaging tornado, with the potential for:
- Flying debris posing serious risk to those outdoors or in vehicles
- Structural damage to homes, roofs, windows, and vehicles
- Uprooted trees and downed power lines
- Total destruction of mobile homes
Communities directly in the path of the tornado include:
- Merino
- Prewitt Reservoir
- Atwood
- Logan Corners
- Willard
- Messex
Residents in these areas should seek shelter immediately. The safest option is to move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, away from windows and exterior walls.
Do not attempt to outrun the tornado in a vehicle. If no shelter is available, lie flat in a low-lying area and protect your head.
This is a confirmed tornado, not just radar-indicated. Immediate action is critical to ensuring safety.
Continue monitoring local media, NOAA weather radio, or official NWS alerts for real-time updates.