Hurricane Milton Wreaks Havoc Across Florida

Hurricane Milton struck Florida as a Category 3 storm, bringing fierce winds, tornadoes, and severe flooding. Siesta Key faced a direct landfall, with Tampa avoiding a direct hit. Over 1 million homes lost power, and multiple tornadoes were reported as Milton progressed across the state.

Hurricane Milton made landfall on Wednesday, striking Florida with devastating force. As a Category 3 storm, it unleashed ferocious winds surpassing 100 mph, triggering multiple tornadoes throughout the state. While Siesta Key faced the brunt of the storm, Tampa managed to avoid a direct hit, yet significant impacts were felt statewide.

The cyclone brought maximum sustained winds of 120 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center, as it reached Siesta Key. The Gulf Coast braced for a potentially deadly storm surge, coupled with heavy rains threatening to flood inland rivers and lakes. More than 1 million homes and businesses were left without power, particularly in Sarasota and Manatee counties.

Communities still recovering from Hurricane Helene, which had inundated regions with storm surge weeks earlier, faced dire conditions. Authorities urged evacuations, though many residents chose or were forced to stay put due to logistics and safety concerns. Despite the storm weakening over time, the challenges persist as Florida grapples with the aftermath and ongoing threats of rain and tornadoes.

(With inputs from agencies.)