“Milton’s Maelstrom: Florida’s Storm of the Century”

 Hurricane Milton hits Florida as a Category 3 storm, causing widespread destruction and power outages. Get the latest updates and safety tips.

Category 3 Hurricane Brings Widespread Destruction and Power Outages

 Hurricane Milton: Florida’s Devastating Storm

Hurricane Milton made landfall in Florida on Wednesday night, leaving a trail of devastation and destruction in its wake. The Category 3 storm brought sustained winds of 125 mph and storm surges of up to 10 feet, causing widespread power outages and property damage.

Storm Facts:

– Landfall: Wednesday night, near Siesta Key, Florida

– Category: 3

– Wind Speed: Up to 120 mph (193 km/h)

– Storm Surge: 6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters)

– Intensity: Sustained winds of 125 mph (205 km/h), with gusts up to 150 mph (240 km/h)

Impact:

– Deaths: 16 confirmed

– Power Outages: 2.5 million+ customers affected

– Damage: Extensive property damage reported, including:

    – Downed trees and power lines

    – Roof damage and destroyed homes

    – Flooding and coastal erosion

– Displacement: Thousands evacuated or displaced

Storm Timeline:

– Wednesday, 8 PM: Hurricane Milton makes landfall near Siesta Key, Florida

– Wednesday, 10 PM: Storm surge reported in coastal areas

– Thursday, 2 AM: Wind gusts reach up to 150 mph (240 km/h)

– Thursday, 6 AM: Storm begins to move inland

Relief Efforts:

– Emergency teams working to restore power and provide aid

– FEMA assisting with relief efforts

– Donation centers open to support affected communities

Safety Tips:

– Stay informed about weather updates

– Follow evacuation orders

– Stay safe indoors during strong winds

– Check on vulnerable neighbors

Important Links:

– Florida Emergency Management

– American Red Cross

– National Weather Service

Get Help:

– Call 911 for emergencies

– Contact your utility company for power updates

– Donate to reputable organizations

Storm Damage Estimates:

– Property damage: $10 billion+

– Economic losses: $5 billion+

– Infrastructure damage: $2 billion+

Conclusion:

Hurricane Milton’s impact on Florida will be felt for months to come. Stay safe, and stay informed.