With reverse storm surge, especially in larger storms, the opposite happens, explained AccuWeather meteorologist Paul Pastelok in 2022, after Ian hit. “It can pull the water out because the wind flow is coming from land to ocean, and it pushes the water,” he said. “The power of the wind is incredible.”

Storm surge is primarily caused by strong winds that push water onto the shore. Those sustained wind speeds, which may exceed 150 miles per hour, will push ocean water onto land, significantly elevating the normal sea level. Current forecasts indicate that these winds could drive over 12 feet of water ashore in the coming days.

As Hurricane Milton intensified on its path toward Florida's Gulf Coast, the strength of the system increased the severity of the storm surge forecast.

Hurricane Milton threatens Sarasota and Manatee counties with a massive storm surge and potential Category 4 winds. Residents prepare for flooding.