The United States Coast Guard (USCG) has reported encountering waves as high as 2.4 meters (between 7 and 8 feet) accompanied by strong winds in the Gulf of Mexico. These severe weather conditions are attributed to Hurricane Milton, which recently weakened from a Category Five to a Category Four storm on the Saffir-Simpson scale.
According to the report, the crew aboard the Cutter Venturous experienced these extreme conditions while positioned approximately 965 kilometers (600 miles) northeast of the hurricane's center on Monday, October 7, 2024. In preparation for the storm's impact, the Cutter Venturous has been strategically relocated, navigating through the challenging seas and fierce winds, as detailed by the USCG.
Authorities have urged all vessels in the area to closely monitor updates from the National Weather Service and to stay tuned to VHF-FM Channel 16 for warnings, especially those directed at smaller boats. A video operation, provided by Lieutenant Commander Benjamin Yahle, captures the daunting conditions faced by the Coast Guard as they work tirelessly to ensure safety in the hurricane-affected region.
Hurricane Milton continues to pose a threat to the Gulf of Mexico region, with landfall expected in Florida by Thursday. Currently classified as a Category Four hurricane, Milton's path through the Gulf has already led to significant flooding in western Cuba. The USCG's efforts during hurricane season are crucial, albeit hazardous. Just two weeks ago, the Coast Guard made headlines for the daring rescue of a man and his dog during the passage of the devastating Hurricane Helene.