Hurricane Milton made landfall in Florida on October 9, 2024, wreaking havoc across the state. The storm has destroyed numerous homes and left over two million people without electricity. U.S. President Joe Biden described Milton as the most devastating hurricane of the century for Florida, with several fatalities reported.
The National Hurricane Center reported that Milton made landfall earlier than expected at 8:30 PM local time, with winds reaching speeds of 195 km/h. Authorities have issued warnings about coastal flooding and torrential rain, leading to severe flooding in many areas.
According to CNN, several deaths have occurred due to tornadoes spawned by Milton, and widespread power outages have affected approximately two million residents. The storm has generated at least 19 tornadoes and destroyed around 125 homes.
Experts have reiterated warnings due to the storm's magnitude and unusual path, urging residents to remain indoors. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis stated that evacuating safely from affected areas is currently dangerous.
Forecasts indicate that sea levels could rise by up to four meters as the storm continues to maintain its strength across Florida, weakening only after moving offshore. Despite a potential decrease in intensity, the risk of flooding remains high along Florida's eastern coastline.
Authorities are preparing for search and rescue operations, with approximately 9,000 National Guard troops and 50,000 utility workers on standby to assist with cleanup and restoration efforts. Tropical storm-force winds are still affecting many regions, generating waves up to 8.5 meters high.
Approximately two million people have been relocated to safe areas, with mandatory evacuations enforced for caravans and senior care facilities. Estimates suggest that Hurricane Milton could cause damages amounting to billions of dollars in Florida. Previously, Hurricane Helen inflicted similar financial losses and resulted in numerous casualties.
President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris urged residents of storm-affected areas to seek shelter, promising extensive federal assistance. Biden labeled Milton as Florida's hurricane of the century.
Former President Donald Trump, speaking at a campaign event in Pennsylvania, expressed his prayers for those in the storm's path, noting that he had never seen a hurricane like Milton.
Fundraising efforts for Hurricane Milton victims have begun, with pop star Taylor Swift pledging five million dollars in aid.