Hurricane Milton's Unexpected Fury Clashes with Florida's Coastal Hopes

Hurricane Milton hit Florida's west coast unexpectedly early and south of projections as a Category 3 storm, bringing 120 mph winds. Despite causing damage with tornadoes and hazardous storm surge, initial relief came as Tampa Bay avoided direct hits. Precautions for potential Atlantic coast impact continue.

Hurricane Milton, a Category 3 storm, made an unexpectedly early landfall on Florida's west coast near Siesta Key on Wednesday with winds of 120 mph, earlier and further south than forecast.

The storm caused tornadoes and damage in numerous counties and destroyed around 125 homes as it swept through the region, though Tampa Bay largely avoided direct impact.

As Milton moves toward the Atlantic, Florida remains vigilant, bracing for additional impact despite anticipated weakening, while recovery efforts from past storms continue statewide.

(With inputs from agencies.)