Sarasota, Fla. – Hurricane Milton, now regarded as one of the most formidable storms to strike the U.S. in recent history, unleashed a pathway of devastation across Florida. With its powerful winds and severe flooding, the hurricane resulted in multiple fatalities and left over 3 million residents without electricity. As this monstrous storm continues its trajectory into the Atlantic, recovery and safety remain urgent concerns for officials and affected communities.
Before making landfall near Siesta Key late Wednesday night, Milton intensified into a deadly Category 3 hurricane, with the National Hurricane Center recording wind speeds reaching 120 mph. Significant damage was reported statewide, notably the roof of Tropicana Field, home of the Tampa Bay Rays, being torn asunder by ferocious winds.
Overnight, the storm prompted over a hundred tornado warnings. In St. Lucie County, a particularly destructive tornado obliterated more than 125 homes. As Thursday dawned, cities like St. Petersburg were left grappling with over 16 inches of rain, threatening severe flash floods across central and western Florida.
Despite the decline in its intensity, the danger is far from over. “It’s not safe to come out yet,” announced officials in Sarasota County, urging residents to stay indoors due to numerous hazards like downed power lines and flooding. Tampa Mayor Jane Castor also stressed ongoing safety concerns, criticizing premature predictions of subsiding danger. “We were fortunate last night, but it’s not over,” Castor said Thursday morning.
Even as the storm moves away, significant threats linger. Authorities warn of possible storm surges capable of reaching up to 10 feet, potent enough to cause catastrophic damage to the coastal and low-lying areas as high tide approaches.
As cleanup and rescue efforts intensify, unexpected dangers have surfaced, including wild animals displaced by the storm. Alligators and other wildlife seeking refuge from the floodwaters have reportedly entered residential areas, adding an unusual layer of risk during recovery operations.
The storm’s ferocity also highlighted vulnerabilities linked to power sources. Florida Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis cautioned that electric vehicles and other items powered by lithium-ion batteries could become hazardous if affected by saltwater flooding. He urged residents to move these vehicles to higher ground and keep them indoors.
Governor Ron DeSantis has acknowledged the considerable impact of Hurricane Milton but also noted that the damage, while extensive, was not as catastrophic as anticipated. “We prepared for the worst, and it’s a relief that the most dire predictions didn’t materialize,” said DeSantis, recognizing the ongoing assessments and the resilience of emergency services.
With more than 3.2 million residents without power and ongoing rescue operations, Florida faces a challenging path to recovery. The National Hurricane Center continues to track Milton as it deescalates into a tropical storm over the Atlantic, reminding the community that the ramifications of such a powerful natural event will be felt for a long time.
Emergency services remain on high alert, and residents are urged to follow official guidance and avoid unnecessary risks as the state begins to grapple with the aftermath of Hurricane Milton.