Tampa: Hurricane Milton roared into the Atlantic Ocean on Thursday after causing widespread destruction across Florida. The powerful storm knocked out electricity to more than 3.4 million homes and businesses and triggered over 150 tornadoes across the state. At least four people lost their lives, adding to the devastation caused just two weeks ago by Hurricane Helene.

Florida it hard, but Tampa avoids worst

Although there were fears that Tampa would take a direct hit, the storm shifted south at the last moment, making landfall late Wednesday near Siesta Key, around 70 miles south of Tampa. Milton came ashore as a Category 3 hurricane, bringing powerful winds, heavy rain, and dangerous storm surges. However, Governor Ron DeSantis said that Tampa escaped the worst-case scenario. 

Tampa did experience heavy rain, with up to 18 inches reported in some areas, but the most severe storm surges occurred further south in Sarasota County, where water levels rose 8 to 10 feet. Thankfully, this was still lower than what the region endured during Hurricane Helene.

“We will better understand the extent of the damage as the day progresses,” said Governor DeSantis. "We’ve got more to do, but we will absolutely get through this.”

Flooding and rescue operations underway

Flooding was a major issue across Florida, with some areas experiencing staggering water levels. In Plant City, just inland from Tampa, emergency crews rescued 35 people overnight as floodwaters rose to levels never before seen in the area. The city received over 13 inches of rain, overwhelming local infrastructure.

Further south, on Anna Maria Island, cleanup efforts were already underway after the storm passed. Jeremi Roberts, from the State Emergency Response Team, noted that piles of sand left by Hurricane Helene may have shielded homes from further damage this time around.

Search-and-rescue operations continue

State officials have been working tirelessly to help those affected by the storm. Over 40 rescues were carried out overnight, and crews continued door-to-door searches on Thursday. In Tampa, police rescued 15 people trapped in a home by a fallen tree. 

“We are laser-focused on search-and-rescue operations today,” said Colonel Mark Thieme, executive director of the Florida State Guard.

Damage and power outages widespread

The storm left millions without power, with extensive damage reported across the state. In some areas, especially senior living communities, many homes—particularly mobile homes—were destroyed before Milton even made landfall. By early Thursday, Milton had weakened to a Category 1 hurricane as it moved away from Florida with winds of about 85 mph.

Florida was still recovering from the impact of Hurricane Helene, which hit just two weeks earlier, causing catastrophic flooding and claiming over 230 lives across the southern U.S. Many coastal towns had rushed to clear debris before Milton arrived, but the damage was significant nonetheless.

 Warnings till in place

Although the storm has moved away from Florida, officials warned that the danger is not over. Storm-surge warnings remain in effect for parts of the east-central Florida coast, extending into Georgia. Tropical storm warnings also stretch up to South Carolina, as the storm continues its path north.

In the hardest-hit counties, including Hillsborough, Pinellas, Sarasota, and Lee, officials urged residents to stay indoors and avoid travel due to blocked roads, downed power lines, and flooding. 

“We’ll let you know when it’s safe to come out,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister.

Evacuations and closures

Ahead of the hurricane, authorities issued mandatory evacuation orders across 15 counties, affecting over 7 million people. Major attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld remained closed as a precaution. Gas shortages also affected the region, with more than 60% of gas stations in Tampa and St. Petersburg running out of fuel, though Governor DeSantis assured the public that the state’s overall supply remains sufficient.