Hurricane Milton Slams Florida as Category 3 Storm, Leaving Widespread Damage

Hurricane Milton made catastrophic landfall on Florida’s Gulf Coast near Siesta Key late Wednesday as a powerful Category 3 storm, bringing sustained winds of about 120 mph, dangerous storm surge, and heavy rainfall that quickly overwhelmed parts of the region. Officials warned of life-threatening flooding as surge levels were forecast to reach as high as 12 feet in some coastal areas.

The storm triggered widespread power outages across the state, affecting more than 2 million customers as utility crews faced hazardous conditions and downed infrastructure. Emergency officials had ordered evacuations for millions of residents in vulnerable coastal and low-lying communities ahead of landfall, urging people to seek shelter before conditions deteriorated.

Milton’s arrival comes only days after Hurricane Helene caused extensive destruction across the southeastern United States, compounding the strain on emergency responders and recovery efforts. Authorities continued to warn that flooding, wind damage, and blocked roads could persist even after the storm’s center moved inland.

State and local officials said the full extent of the damage would not be known until daylight, but early reports pointed to severe impacts across the Gulf Coast. Residents were urged to remain indoors, avoid flooded roads, and follow guidance from emergency management agencies.