NBC Meteorologist Overcome with Emotion While Covering Hurricane Milton
In the wake of Hurricane Helene’s devastation, Florida faces yet another severe threat from Hurricane Milton. On Monday, NBC 6 South Florida meteorologist John Morales became visibly emotional while discussing the storm’s impending trajectory. The hurricane has rapidly escalated from a Category 3 to Category 5, boasting wind speeds anticipated to reach 185 mph. “It has dropped 50 millibars in just 10 hours,” Morales mentioned, tearing up mid-report. “I apologize. This is just horrific.”
Morales highlighted the alarming intensity of the hurricane, stating, “It is just gaining strength in the Gulf of Mexico, where the ocean temperatures are alarmingly high. This remarkable heat can be attributed to global warming and climate change, which are increasing threats to our safety.”
Taking to social media, Morales expressed his regret for his emotional response, reflecting on how extreme weather events have impacted him personally. He urged viewers to demand action on climate issues, stating, “Frankly, you should be shaken too, and call for #ClimateActionNow.”
While Morales reassured the audience that the storm might weaken as it approaches Florida, he still cautioned that it would hit as “nothing less than a major hurricane.” States of emergency are being declared in various counties, leading residents to evacuate and sporting events to be postponed. Some attractions at Florida’s theme parks, including those near Disney World, are also closing in anticipation of the storm.
Experts project that Hurricane Milton will make landfall near Longboat Key, positioned between Tampa and Sarasota, around 8 p.m. Wednesday. The region remains on high alert as preparations for the hurricane continue.