Soak up the sun tomorrow; frost is coming

Before Milton, the Gulf Coast was pummeled by nine major hurricanes since 2017.

By Todd Nelson

The Minnesota Star Tribune
October 9, 2024 at 7:23PM

In less than two weeks’ time, Florida’s Gulf Coast experienced two landfalling hurricanes approximately 200 miles apart. Many Floridians in the central part of the state experienced devastation from both storms. There was no time to collect debris from Hurricane Helene along roadsides, which became dangerous projectiles as Hurricane Milton slammed the coast overnight.

Insurance losses will no doubt reach into the billions in the aftermath of both historic storms. Many wonder what they’ll come home to once the coast is clear.

The hurricane fatigue is real. Before Milton, nine major hurricanes have made landfall along the Gulf Coast since 2017; three in Florida alone since 2022 (Ian, Idalia and Helene). Asheville, N.C., was considered a “climate haven.” Then Helene came along.

Closer to home we’ll bask under 80-degree sunshine tomorrow afternoon. Enjoy it, because a series of cold fronts arrive within the next few days. Many in the metro will see their first frost early next week, with flurries possible up north on Monday.

about the writer

Todd Nelson