More Than 3 Million Without Power as Storm Moves Past Florida

Created on 10 October, 2024 • News • 70 views • 3 minutes read

Hurricane Milton, now a Category 1 storm, has left over 3 million homes and businesses without power as it moves past Florida’s east coast.

Hurricane Milton, which made landfall near Sarasota as a Category 3 storm, has left over 3 million homes and businesses without power as it weakened to a Category 1. Although now less intense, the storm continues to produce heavy rain, damaging winds, and multiple tornadoes across Florida’s east coast. The roof of Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg was damaged, and several cranes collapsed in downtown Tampa. Flash floods remain a serious concern, especially in areas that saw significant rainfall, like St. Petersburg, which recorded 16 inches of rain. Despite the weakened state, emergency services remain on high alert due to the ongoing risks posed by storm surges and continued rainfall across Florida and neighboring states.

Key Developments:

1. Landfall and Initial Damage: Hurricane Milton struck Florida on October 9 near Siesta Key with winds of up to 120 mph. While Tampa was spared a direct hit, significant damage was recorded throughout western Florida, with particularly severe flooding in St. Petersburg.
2. Power Outages: Over 3 million homes and businesses were left without power across Florida, as strong winds downed power lines, trees, and infrastructure. Efforts to restore power are underway, but full restoration may take weeks in the hardest-hit areas.
3. Tornado Warnings: Several tornadoes were reported across southern Florida, leading to fatalities in St. Lucie County. Tornado watches remain in effect for many parts of central and southern Florida as the storm moves northward.
4. Transportation and Services Impacted: Tampa International Airport and Orlando International Airport remain closed, and over 1,700 flights have been canceled. Major theme parks such as Disney World and Universal Resort have also shut down. Additionally, several Waffle House locations in the storm's path have closed, a measure often used to gauge the severity of disasters.
5. Evacuations and Emergency Measures: As Milton approached, mandatory evacuation orders were issued for areas near Tampa Bay, Fort Myers, and Sarasota, particularly mobile homes and low-lying coastal zones. Florida’s Governor Ron DeSantis has stressed the importance of evacuations, noting that the storm surge could reach dangerous levels. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden urged residents to evacuate, emphasizing the life-threatening nature of the storm.
6. Continuing Threats: The National Hurricane Center has warned that although Milton has weakened, it continues to pose a threat to Florida, with heavy rainfall, damaging winds, and flash flooding expected to persist in central and eastern parts of the state. Tornado warnings are still in place as the storm tracks inland, threatening areas further north and east along the Atlantic coast.

Crucial Points:

1. Storm Surge: Milton brought dangerous storm surges to Florida’s Gulf Coast, with water levels predicted to rise between six and twelve feet in Tampa Bay and other coastal areas. Residents were urged to avoid these flood zones as the surges can flood areas that are normally dry.
2. Widespread Flooding: Rainfall totals of up to 18 inches were forecast for parts of the Florida Peninsula, leading to flash flooding in multiple counties. Some communities remain submerged under floodwaters, further complicating rescue and relief efforts.
3. Infrastructure Damage: Aside from power outages, other critical infrastructure has been impacted, including water main breaks in St. Petersburg, which forced the city to shut down its water supply. Multiple cranes collapsed, causing damage to buildings in downtown Tampa.

Government Response:

Federal, state, and local officials are working together to coordinate relief efforts. FEMA has been activated, and recovery resources have been pre-positioned to assist affected communities. Florida Governor DeSantis confirmed that emergency fuel deliveries have been expedited to replenish gas stations, as shortages were reported in some areas.

In conclusion, while Hurricane Milton has lost some of its strength, it remains a dangerous storm. Residents in affected areas are encouraged to continue following evacuation orders and stay informed about ongoing developments as the storm moves through Florida and into neighboring states. The full scope of the damage will likely become clearer in the coming days as recovery efforts gain momentum.