Hurricane Milton hit Florida hard on 10 October 2024, making landfall in the Tampa Bay area with winds initially classified as Category 5, reaching 270 km/h. After causing extensive damage, the storm was downgraded to Category 2, but its impact remains devastating. Storm surges of up to 4.7 metres struck the coast and more than two million residents were left without electricity.
Mass evacuations
The authorities issued evacuation orders for several million people in the most vulnerable areas. President Joe Biden urged citizens to follow official guidance, warning that it is a ‘matter of life and death’.
Damage and losses
Initial estimates point to casualties and serious damage to infrastructure. The economic costs could reach tens of billions of dollars if Milton continues to hit the Tampa area as a Category 3 or higher. Torrential rain and tornadoes have further increased the risk of flooding across the Florida peninsula.
