As Florida starts reopening major airports and tourist sites after the huge damage caused by Hurricane Milton, rescue teams are still pulling survivors. More than 2 million homes and businesses remain powerless, following the storm’s brutal path of destruction.
Milton hit land as a Category 3 hurricane, with 120 mph winds. It brought massive rainfall and storm surges, causing widespread blackouts and tossing sailboats into people’s yards. The hurricane also spawned deadly tornadoes, killing at least six in St. Lucie County. So far, the storm is linked to 17 human fatalities.
Although the Tampa Bay area narrowly escaped the worst, a crane collapsed into an office building, and roofs of Tropicana Field was torn apart. Flooding, fallen trees, and cresting rivers continue to make roads impassable, forcing mass evacuations. Governor Ron DeSantis said Friday that recovery will take time, with countless repairs needed. Meanwhile, President Biden estimates the storm’s damage could reach $50 billion. Power outages have affected more than 3 million residents, but crews have restored power to a million so far. Over 1,600 people have been rescued, and dozens are still awaiting help.
Tornadoes, Hurricane Milton’s most unexpected threat, were responsible for the worst destruction, said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. She emphasized that while winds and floods are typically expected, the tornadoes proved this storm was a statewide disaster.
Florida braces for more storms, and sinkholes continue to appear, adding to the challenges. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant as recovery efforts continue. As of now, schools are gradually reopening, and airports like Orlando and Tampa are resuming flights. However, fuel shortages persist, especially in central Florida, leaving many stranded.
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