Hurricane Milton's Destructive Path: Florida's Battle with Nature's Fury

Hurricane Milton struck central Florida, causing substantial damage with tornadoes and power outages affecting nearly 2 million customers. The storm, initially a Category 3 hurricane, forced evacuations and left a trail of destruction. Aid efforts are underway with National Guard and power workers deployed for recovery.

Hurricane Milton clawed across central Florida on Thursday, bringing havoc in its wake after making landfall on the state's west coast as a formidable Category 3 hurricane. Deadly tornadoes, obliterated homes, and significant infrastructure damage marked its path, leaving nearly 2 million without power.

The storm smashed into Siesta Key around 8:30 p.m. EDT, with winds clocking 120 mph before weakening slightly to 105 mph, though it remained perilously formidable. Torrential rain lashed the Tampa Bay area, leading to a flash flood emergency as 16.6 inches of rain fell in St. Petersburg.

Governor Ron DeSantis expressed hopes of mitigating major damage, but warned of the continued danger posed by the storm. At least two fatalities were reported, 19 tornadoes wreaked havoc, and authorities mobilized emergency response teams to aid recovery and provide essential supplies.

(With inputs from agencies.)