Milton still producing hurricane force winds and heavy rainfall as it moves off Florida’s east coast
Hurricane Milton has moved off Florida’s east coast, but remains a significant threat with sustained winds of 85 mph (140 kph) and continued heavy rainfall impacting east-central Florida, according to the US National Hurricane Center (NHC). The storm initially made landfall as a Category 3 hurricane, missing a direct hit on Tampa but causing widespread destruction across the state. Over 3 million Floridians remain without power as rescue and recovery operations begin.
Hillsborough County has initiated post-storm recovery, though earlier, emergency crews faced challenges responding to 911 calls due to high winds. In St. Petersburg, a water main break has left residents without access to tap water, while a construction crane collapsed onto a building, adding to the chaos in the area. Streets in Gulfport were also submerged due to severe flooding.
The storm’s powerful winds and surges have destroyed approximately 125 homes, particularly affecting senior citizen communities with mobile homes. St. Lucie County has reported more than one fatality, though the full scale of the damage and loss of life is still being assessed as relief efforts ramp up across the state.