Hurricane Milton Strikes Florida, Leaving 16 Dead and Over 2.5 Million Without Power

Hurricane Milton made landfall in Florida as a Category 3 storm on October 9, with maximum sustained winds of 120 mph (205 kph), CBS News reported today. The source put the confirmed death toll from the tragedy at 16.

The storm caused significant destruction, destroying about 125 homes, particularly in senior mobile home communities, before making landfall near Siesta Key. Over 2.5 million residents lost power in Florida, predominantly in Hardee, Sarasota, and Manatee counties.

As Milton weakened to a Category 2 storm, it brought heavy rainfall and flash flooding, with some areas receiving over 16 inches of rain. Tornadoes also touched down in various regions, exacerbating the situation. Mandatory evacuation orders were issued for 15 counties, impacting around 7.2 million people. Governor Ron DeSantis mobilized 9,000 National Guard members and over 50,000 utility workers to assist in recovery efforts.

Residents faced long power outages and potential sewer system shutdowns as the storm continued to move across the state, leaving many to grapple with the aftermath of the devastating hurricane.