Hurricane Milton, now a Category 1 storm, left a big mark on Florida overnight. Almost 2 million people lost power. St. Petersburg got hit with 16.6 inches of rain on Wednesday.
Even though the winds slowed down, the danger didn’t go away. Storm surge, hurricane, and tropical storm warnings were all in place. This shows how serious this weather event is.
Key Takeaways
- Hurricane Milton weakened to a Category 1 storm as it crossed central Florida.
- Nearly 2 million customers lost power due to the storm’s impact.
- St. Petersburg received over 16 inches of rain, leading to a flash flood emergency.
- Dangerous storm surge, hurricane, and tropical storm advisories remained in effect.
- The storm continued to pose a threat despite the reduction in wind speed.
Hurricane Milton: A Powerful Storm Batters Florida
Hurricane Milton, a Category 3 storm, hit Florida’s western coast on Wednesday evening. It made landfall in Siesta Key, about 60 miles south of Tampa. The storm brought strong winds, storm surge, and heavy rain.
Milton’s Landfall: A Category 3 Hurricane Strikes
Hurricane Milton landed around 8:30 p.m. EDT (0030 GMT) with winds of 120 miles per hour. It battered the coast with its force. The storm surge and heavy rain posed a big threat of flooding.
Over 2 million people got the highest flood warnings. More than 2 million lost power. Airports in Orlando and Tampa closed, and many flights were canceled.
| Key Statistics | Details |
|---|---|
| Landfall Category | Category 3 |
| Maximum Sustained Winds | 120 mph (195 kph) |
| Expected Storm Surge | Up to 15 feet |
| Rainfall Forecast | 300-400 mm over 2 days |
| Affected Residents | Over 2 million with highest flood warnings |
| Power Outages | Over 2 million people |
| Cancelled Flights | Numerous flights between UK and Florida |
| Closed Airports | Orlando International, Tampa International |
As Hurricane Milton hit Florida, authorities prepared for the worst. They urged people to follow evacuation orders and stay safe.
Weakening but Stil Dangerous: Milton Downgraded to Category 1
Hurricane Milton moved across central Florida, losing strength. By early Thursday, its winds dropped to 90 mph (150 kph), making it a Category 1 hurricane. Despite weakening, it brought heavy rains and storm surges that caused damage.
Milton was about 45 miles (75 km) west-southwest of Cape Canaveral, near NASA’s Space Force Station. Governor Ron DeSantis warned that the threat was real. He hoped Tampa Bay would avoid major damage and that storm surges would not be as bad.
Forecasters said seawater could rise up to 13 feet (4 meters), threatening coastal areas. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) warned of more tornadoes and flooding as Milton moved through central Florida.
| Impact Statistics | Value |
|---|---|
| Wind Speed Reduction | 90 mph (150 kph) |
| Potential Storm Surge | Up to 13 feet (4 meters) |
| Tornado Warnings Issued | Over 130 |
| Homes/Businesses Without Power | Around 1.8 million |
As #tropicalstormmilton weakened, people in central Florida stayed alert and ready. The storm, even downgraded, was a big threat. Authorities told everyone to stay careful and prepared.
“We’re not out of the woods yet. This storm is dangerous, and we need everyone to stay alert and follow local officials.”
Hurricane Milton weakens as it marches across central Florida
Hurricane Milton moved across Florida, once a Category 3 storm but now a Category 1. It was causing a lot of damage, with tornadoes, flooding, and power outages. Millions were left without electricity.
Destructive Path: Tornadoes, Flooding, and Power Outages
The National Weather Service said at least 19 tornadoes were caused by Hurricane Milton. These tornadoes damaged about 125 homes, mostly mobile homes. The storm also brought heavy rains, flooding cities like St. Petersburg with over 400 millimeters of rain in one day.
Florida’s power grid was severely affected, with over 2 million homes and businesses without electricity by Thursday morning. The Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota areas were hit the hardest.
The Florida Division of Emergency Management told people to stay safe and indoors. They warned of more tornadoes, floods, and strong winds. Search and rescue teams were ready to help once the storm passed.
Even though Hurricane Milton weakened, its impact on central Florida was huge. The storm could cause more damage as it moves. Emergency teams were working hard to help those affected.
Assessing the Damage: Search and Rescue Efforts Underway
As Hurricane Milton weakened to a tropical storm and crossed central Florida, authorities started assessing the damage. The storm path left destruction, with reports of power outages, flooding, and damaged buildings.
The wind speed reduction from a Category 3 to a Category 1 storm didn’t lessen the impact. Natural disaster teams are working hard. They are focused on search and rescue to keep people safe.
In St. Petersburg, the Tropicana Field, home of the Tampa Bay Rays, was badly damaged. The roof was torn off by the winds. Nearby, a construction crane fell, showing the damage assessment.
Governor DeSantis said emergency preparedness steps are in place. Search and rescue teams are ready to act once the storm passes. People are advised to stay alert and follow local instructions as recovery efforts go on.
The full damage from #hurricaneseason #tropicalstormmilton will be clear soon. But it’s clear that the Metro Nashville Network and nearby areas faced a big challenge after this natural disaster.
Preparedness and Response: Authorities Urge Caution
When #HurricaneMilton hit central #Florida as a Category 3 storm, relief efforts were quickly set in motion. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) brought in millions of liters of water, meals, and supplies. Also, around 9,000 National Guard members were sent to Florida to help with recovery.
The state was ready for power outages, with over 50,000 workers to fix the grid fast. The Florida Division of Emergency Management told people to stay inside and watch out for dangers. They warned of flooding, tornadoes, and strong winds.
President Joe Biden got updates on the storm’s effects. His team promised federal help “for as long as it takes.” With the storm’s path and strength changing, officials stressed the need to follow hurricane preparedness tips and listen to local advice.
“We are fully committed to supporting the people of Florida through this natural disaster. Our thoughts are with those in the path of this powerful #tropicalstorm, and we will do everything in our power to help them weather this meteorological event.”
As #HurricaneMilton moves through central #Florida, officials are watching closely. They urge everyone to be careful. It’s key to follow emergency advice to stay safe during this tough time.
Federal Support: President Biden Briefed on Milton’s Impact
As Hurricane Milton moved through central Florida, the federal government stepped in to help. President Joe Biden learned about the storm’s effects after it hit on Wednesday evening.
Resources Mobilized: Meals, Water, and Rescue Teams
A White House spokesperson said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and Homeland Security Adviser Liz Sherwood-Randall briefed the President. Before that, President Biden said the government had 20 million meals and 40 million liters of water ready for the affected areas.
The President also mentioned that the Pentagon had search and rescue teams, helicopters, and water vehicles ready. This shows the federal government’s dedication to helping local authorities after this natural disaster.
“This is the storm of the century,” President Biden said, stressing the importance of emergency preparedness and federal support for Florida.
The federal government’s quick response and Vice President Harris‘ work with state and local leaders are key. They will help those affected by Hurricane Milton and #tropicalstormmilton.
Conclusion
Hurricane Milton has weakened to a tropical storm as it moves through central Florida. Authorities are now checking the damage and working together to respond. The storm, though less intense, is dangerous and causing heavy rains, flooding, and tornadoes.
The federal government, led by President Biden, is sending help to aid in the recovery. People are advised to stay alert and listen to local officials. This storm highlights the need for emergency preparedness and teamwork between governments and communities.
The #HurricaneTrack of #HurricaneMilton has changed, but the storm’s impact is clear. It has caused a lot of natural disaster and damage. With support from all levels of government and the community’s strength, the area will get through this.
FAQ
What happened to Hurricane Milton?
Hurricane Milton weakened to a Category 1 hurricane as it crossed Florida overnight. This left millions without power.
Where did Hurricane Milton make landfall?
It landed around 8:30 p.m. EDT on Wednesday. This was near Siesta Key as a Category 3 hurricane.
What was the impact of Hurricane Milton?
The storm caused 19 tornadoes, damaging many homes. Over 2 million homes and businesses lost power. Rainfall and storm surge are expected to be severe.
How are authorities responding to Hurricane Milton?
FEMA has sent water, meals, and supplies. The National Guard and electricity workers are ready to help. They anticipate widespread power outages.
What support is the federal government providing?
President Biden was updated on the storm. The White House has meals and water ready. The Pentagon is preparing rescue teams and equipment.
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