Tampa, Fla. (BLOOM) – In anticipation of Hurricane Milton’s landfall, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has deployed wave sensors at eight strategic locations along Florida’s Gulf Coast, from Naples to Crystal River, to monitor the storm's impact on coastal waves. The deployment, taking place today, will help scientists measure storm surge, wave height, and storm tides, providing crucial data for emergency response efforts.
USGS field crews also installed a rapid-deployment gauge on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge in St. Petersburg. This streamgage will provide real-time water level data, helping emergency managers and decision-makers track water levels to protect lives and property.
The National Hurricane Center has warned of life-threatening storm surge and damaging winds as Milton approaches. USGS sensors will remain active throughout the storm to measure water levels and analyze wave frequency and height. This information will help refine future storm surge forecasts and inform recovery efforts in the most affected areas.
The collected data may also aid in updating flood insurance maps and building codes to enhance public safety and coastal resilience.
For more information on USGS sensor deployment, visit the USGS Flood Event Viewer. Those in Milton’s projected path should visit ready.gov for emergency preparedness tips.