Breaking News: Voluntary High-Water Rescues Begin in Pasco County as Hurricane Milton Recovery Intensifies
TNW News Staff Report | October 11, 2024 | 12:21 PM

Immediate Update: High-Water Rescues Underway in Pasco County

Just into the TNW newsroom: Pasco County in Florida has launched voluntary high-water rescue operations as flash flooding from Hurricane Milton continues to impact the region. Authorities have advised residents in flooded areas to stay put and call for assistance if they are trapped. Rescue teams, consisting of local law enforcement, fire departments, and the National Guard, are mobilized to assist those in need.

Todd Nardone, Chief of the TNW Hurricane Operations Division, emphasized the importance of residents remaining vigilant, especially in low-lying areas prone to flooding. TNW will continue providing live updates from the scene, with on-ground reporters tracking the rescue operations in real-time.

Hurricane Milton's Impact and Ongoing Recovery Efforts

Landfall and Path: Hurricane Milton made landfall near Siesta Key as a Category 3 hurricane with sustained winds of 107 mph. Initially a Category 5 storm, Milton weakened before impacting Florida. Though the storm has now moved into the Atlantic, it continues to bring dangerous conditions to Florida’s east coast and the Bahamas.

Power Outages: Over 2.4 million Floridians remain without power, and restoration efforts are underway, but full recovery could take several days. Authorities are prioritizing critical infrastructure like hospitals and emergency services.

Tornadoes and Casualties: The storm triggered a series of deadly tornadoes in St. Lucie County, particularly affecting the Spanish Lakes Country Club Village, where five lives were lost. Additional fatalities occurred in Volusia County(three deaths) and St. Petersburg (two deaths) due to flash flooding, with 18 inches of rain recorded in some areas.

Flooding and Road Closures: Flash flooding remains a critical concern, especially near Cape Canaveral, where numerous roads have been washed out. Rescue teams are working to evacuate stranded residents, and officials continue to urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel as dangerous conditions persist.

Government and Community Response

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis commended first responders and state agencies for their swift action during and after Hurricane Milton. He reassured Floridians that recovery efforts are in full swing, with voluntary high-water rescuesnow underway in Pasco County and other affected regions.

President Joe Biden has deployed federal aid, including Coast Guard, FEMA teams, and emergency personnel to assist in rescue and recovery operations. The President is expected to visit Florida on Sunday to meet with local officials and assess the damage firsthand.

TNW News Continuous Coverage

TNW News remains committed to keeping the public informed throughout the recovery process. Todd Nardone and the Hurricane Operations Division are leading live coverage, delivering crucial updates via TNWWeather.com, X, Threads, and Instagram.

Stay tuned for live reports on rescue efforts, power restoration updates, and safety advisories. If you or a loved one are in need of assistance in Pasco County or any other impacted areas, contact local emergency services and follow TNW for ongoing information.

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