Hurricane Milton: A Ferocious Force that Ravaged Florida

Hurricane Milton struck Florida with devastating ferocity, bringing severe winds, rains, and tornadoes that claimed at least four lives. The storm made landfall in Siesta Key as a Category 3 hurricane, causing widespread damage. Power outages affected millions, as emergency services urged residents to remain cautious amid warnings.

Hurricane Milton unleashed chaos across Florida, disrupting everyday life with deadly winds, torrential rain, and tornadoes on Thursday. The storm caused significant damage while claiming at least four lives, adding misery to communities still recovering from Hurricane Helene's destruction two weeks prior.

The hurricane made landfall as a Category 3 storm in Siesta Key, bypassing a direct hit on Tampa, but still provoking emergency responses. Severe weather warnings extend to areas in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina, as officials emphasize ongoing risks from storm surges, flooding, and power outages affecting over 3.2 million homes.

Structural damage is widespread, including power line disruptions, road blockages, and infrastructure damage, like the destruction at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg. In impacted areas, such as Plant City, emergency crews have been mobilized for rescues. The slow-moving aftermath and risk of tornadoes keep evacuees and officials vigilant as the storm moves on.

(With inputs from agencies.)