Weather
Hurricane Milton Wreaks Havoc Across Florida, Over 2.6 million customers without power
Hurricane Milton has caused widespread damage and disruption across the state of Florida.
The powerful storm has brought strong winds, heavy rainfall, and tornadoes, resulting in numerous injuries and fatalities.
Key Impacts:
- Construction Crane Collapse: A construction crane collapsed onto the Tampa Bay Times building in St. Petersburg, causing significant damage.
- Roof Damage: The roof of Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg was completely ripped off by the hurricane’s winds.
- Power Outages: Over 2.6 million customers are without power in Florida due to the storm.
- Tornado Damage: A tornado struck Spanish Lakes Country Club Village in Fort Pierce, resulting in multiple fatalities.
- Structural Damage: Numerous buildings have been damaged, including the mayor’s residence in Cocoa Beach.
- Debris and Flooding: Strong winds have caused debris to fly through the air, and flooding has occurred in many areas.
Government Response:
- Federal Assistance: President Joe Biden has approved emergency declarations for Florida and the Seminole Tribe of Florida, providing federal resources to support recovery efforts.
- FEMA Presence: FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell is on the ground in Florida, coordinating with local and state officials and providing updates on the situation.
Safety Concerns:
- Receding Water: Authorities are urging residents to avoid walking out into receding water in Tampa Bay, as storm surge can pose a serious threat.
- Powerline Explosions: A powerline exploded on a home in Venice, causing sparks to rain down.
The situation remains fluid, and additional information will be released as it becomes available.
Reports of potential tornado activity have emerged in the Katy Hockley and Bridgeland areas. However, as of now, there have been no calls regarding structural damage or injuries associated with these reports.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
A Dense Fog Advisory is in effect for Southeast Texas from Friday night through Saturday morning. Drivers should exercise caution and be prepared for significantly reduced visibility during the morning commute.
- Spotty rain showers and isolated thunderstorms are possible ahead of an approaching cold front.
- Coastal areas may experience some early storm activity around sunrise, though these storms are not expected to match the intensity of the severe weather experienced on Thursday.
- A cold front will move through the region, bringing scattered storms. While the overall risk of severe weather remains low, there is a 2 out of 5 chance (Slight Risk) for isolated severe storms.
- Residents across Southeast Texas are advised to stay alert, as conditions can change rapidly.
- The line of storms is expected to clear the area by approximately 5:00 PM on Saturday as the front pushes eastward toward Louisiana.
High-pressure systems will move in behind the cold front, providing a calmer and more stable weather pattern. Expect drier conditions and cooler temperatures on Sunday.
- Stay updated with local weather alerts and forecasts.
- Exercise caution while driving during foggy conditions or heavy rainfall.
- Have a plan in place and know where to seek shelter if severe weather develops.
The National Weather Service and local authorities will continue to provide updates as needed. Residents are encouraged to monitor conditions and stay safe throughout the weekend.