Tampa Bay's growth heightens risk as Hurricane Milton approaches

As Hurricane Milton nears, Tampa Bay faces severe storm surge risks, with rising sea levels and rapid development increasing vulnerability to catastrophic flooding.

Anna Phillips reports for The Washington Post.

In short:

• Tampa Bay’s population boom and development have put more people and buildings in harm's way, especially along vulnerable barrier islands.
• Rising sea levels make even smaller storms more dangerous, increasing the risk of devastating storm surges.
• Experts warn that if Milton strikes the area, it could cause billions in damages and significant loss of life due to flooding and wave action.

Key quote:

“The surge will flood; the waves will destroy. It’s really the waves that do the damage.”

— Bob Weisberg, professor emeritus at the University of South Florida

Why this matters:

Tampa Bay is one of the most flood-prone regions in the U.S., with climate change and unchecked development making hurricanes deadlier. A direct hit from a major storm like Milton could overwhelm infrastructure and displace thousands of residents.

Learn more: LISTEN: Robbie Parks on why hurricanes are getting deadlier