Hurricane Milton Strikes Florida: Chaos Unfurls as Storm Downgrades

Hurricane Milton, a former Cat 5 storm, made landfall in Florida as a Category 3 hurricane. While weakening, it still poses a threat with dangerous winds and storm surges. Authorities warn residents to take precautions, as the hurricane could still cause major flooding and damage despite losing strength.

Hurricane Milton slammed into Florida's central west coast near Siesta Key as a Category 3 storm Wednesday night, bringing 120 mph winds. The National Hurricane Center reported the storm's strength diminished after landfall but cautioned against its potential destructive power, even while it transitions into a tropical storm.

Residents across the Tampa Bay and St. Petersburg areas were instructed to shelter in place due to the threat of 'extremely dangerous hurricane-force winds'. The storm is expected to weaken further as it moves inland across Florida before heading into the Atlantic.

Fuel shortages plagued Florida as more than 23 percent of its gas stations reported out of stock, particularly affecting the Tampa Bay region. The National Weather Service also monitored potential twisters and significant storm surges, triggering numerous warnings and evacuation orders to ensure public safety.

Jeff Masters, a former NOAA scientist, highlighted the risks posed by weakening hurricanes, noting historical parallels with Hurricane Katrina. Although Hurricane Milton deescalated to Category 3, officials remain wary of severe storm surges and flooding along Florida's west coast.

Authorities have issued hurricane warnings along expansive stretches of both the east and west coastlines. Massive storm surges are anticipated in areas from Boca Grande to Sarasota, sparking urgent calls for evacuation as officials project significant flooding and potential fatalities.

CBS News reported that Governor Ron DeSantis issued emergency warnings and opened 149 shelters across the state, expecting about 200,000 people to seek refuge. In addition, Floridians have been urged to prepare for prolonged power outages and possible mandatory evacuations.

(With inputs from agencies.)