Breaking News: Hurricane Milton Leaves Trail of Destruction Across Florida
TNW News Staff Report | October 10, 2024 | 5:00 PM

Siesta Key, FL — Hurricane Milton, now downgraded to a Category 1 storm, continues to devastate Florida after making landfall Wednesday evening near Siesta Key. At least 10 people have been killed, millions have lost power, and parts of the state remain in recovery mode from the impact of tornadoes, flooding, and high winds.

In St. Lucie County, a tornado tore through the Spanish Lakes Country Club Village, a retirement community for residents aged 55 and older. Five residents have been confirmed dead, according to county spokesman Erick Gill, with multiple homes destroyed. "The level of destruction we’re seeing here is unlike anything in the last two decades," Gill said.

Key Developments:

• Landfall & Path: Hurricane Milton initially made landfall as a Category 3 storm with winds of 107 mph near Siesta Key, about 70 miles south of Tampa. Though the storm has weakened, it remains a serious threat as it moves northward into the Atlantic.
• Tornadoes & Casualties: Along with the five deaths in St. Lucie County, three fatalities have been confirmed in Volusia County, and two in St. Petersburg, where 18 inches of rainfall have led to severe flooding. Tornadoes caused widespread destruction in multiple areas, including a deadly strike at Spanish Lakes in Fort Pierce, where search-and-rescue efforts are ongoing.
• Power Outages: Over 3.3 million Floridians are without electricity as fallen trees and damaged substations have left utility grids crippled. Restoration efforts continue, but full recovery could take days, particularly in the hardest-hit areas.
• Flooding: Flash flooding remains a significant concern along Florida’s east-central coast, especially near Cape Canaveral. Many roads have been washed out, and residents in affected areas are being evacuated by boat.

Government Response:
Governor Ron DeSantis praised the swift action of first responders and announced that more than 48 people have been rescued since the storm began. Hospitals in Pinellas County are being evacuated as a precaution, with rising waters posing an increasing threat. "We will recover, but the damage is extensive, and it will take time," DeSantis said in a press briefing.

Federal Support:
President Joe Biden has mobilized federal resources, including over 1,000 Coast Guard members, to assist in recovery operations. "We are fully committed to supporting Florida in this time of need," Biden said, urging residents to stay safe and follow local authorities’ guidance.

Ongoing Threats:
Though Hurricane Milton has weakened, flash flooding and strong winds remain a concern along Florida's northeast coast. Storm surge warnings continue for parts of the region as the storm heads toward the Bahamas.

TNW News Hurricane Operations Division Update:
Todd Nardone, Chief of TNW’s Hurricane Operations Division, emphasized that TNW News will continue providing live, 24/7 updates on TNWWeather.com, X, Threads, and Instagram. Residents are urged to remain indoors and monitor local advisories for safety information.

For real-time updates, safety tips, and additional resources, visit TNWWeather.com.

Stay tuned to TNW News as the aftermath of Hurricane Milton unfolds.