‘Deadly threat’: Hurricane Michael takes aim at Florida Panhandle

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The National Hurricane Center declared Tropical Storm Michael a hurricane on Monday morning and said it is expected to strengthen rapidly to a Category 3 in the next 24 to 36 hours.

“Michael could produce three life-threatening hazards along portions of the northeastern Gulf Coast: storm surge, heavy rainfall, and hurricane-force winds, with storm surge and hurricane watches in effect,” the NHC tweeted.

The storm initially formed near Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. The Florida Panhandle and Big Bend region, as well as the Carolinas, are expected to receive “life-threatening” flash flooding through Thursday, according to the hurricane center.

“Let me be clear: Hurricane Michael is a monster storm and the forecast keeps getting more dangerous,” Florida Gov. Rick Scott said Monday evening after being briefed by officials in Escambia County.

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He said some areas could see storm surges of 8 to 12 feet, which can travel far inland and potentially cover the roofs of houses. Even in areas outside of the forecast path, deadly storm surges could occur, Scott said. The storm could also produce tornadoes, he said.

“Hurricane Michael is forecast to be the most destructive storm to hit the Florida panhandle in decades,” Scott said.

Scott requested that President Donald Trump declare a pre-landfall emergency for the state.

The governor also expanded his initial emergency declaration from 26 to 35 counties — activating a total of 1,250 National Guard personnel with an additional 4,000 available, and the state will be bringing in an additional 30,000 emergency personnel from neighboring states.

While attending the International Association of Chiefs of Police Annual Convention in Orlando, Florida, on Monday, Scott said, “I want to thank President Trump, we had horrible hurricanes. Trump couldn’t have done more than he’s done.”

Soon after, Trump responded to Hurricane Michael while giving a speech at the same convention.

“As Hurricane Michael nears landfall we are working with state and local officials in Florida to take all necessary precautions,” the president said. “I told Rick Scott that we are ready for you. Looks like another big one, but we’ve handled them well.”