Matthew strengthens; future track moves farther west, closer to Florida
by: Irene Sans Updated: Oct 4, 2016 - 12:33 AM
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The storm could be over or very close to Florida as a major Category 3 hurricane on Thursday, packing maximum sustained winds between 115 and 120 mph.
“Matthew is expected to bring significant impacts to Central Florida, especially along the coast starting Thursday. Please, stay informed as conditions will be changing rapidly,” said Channel 9 Chief Meteorologist Tom Terry.
Hurricane Matthew is massive and will directly impact Florida. Depending on its proximity, the potential impacts could worsen or improve. The “cone of uncertainty” shows where the center of the storm could pass.
Residents and visitors need to take into consideration Matthew’s size.
The storm measures more than 700 miles from north to south, and more than 600 miles east to west.
Matthew’s wind field is extensive. Tropical storm-force winds extend more than 185 miles and hurricane-force winds about 40 miles from its center.
Matthew continues as a very strong Category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained wind speeds of 145 mph.
The storm is currently moving north at 7 mph. Pressure dropped Monday evening to 934 millibars, which could be a sign that it is strengthening.