Hurricane Milton struck Florida on Wednesday evening at 8:30 p.m. EDT as a formidable Category 3 storm, boasting sustained winds of 120 mph and generating numerous tornadoes. This hurricane led to significant flooding and left millions without power in the southern Tampa Bay area.
As assessments of wind and flood damage are conducted across Florida, the storm continues its journey eastward towards the Atlantic Ocean.
Historically, Tampa has not experienced a direct hit from a major hurricane since 1921, which was also a Category 3, according to reports from the National Weather Service. The region is still recovering from the impacts of Hurricane Helene, which occurred less than two weeks prior.
Power Outages Across Florida Counties
A flash flood emergency was declared for Pasco, Hillsborough, and Polk Counties due to heavy rainfall on Wednesday night, affecting areas including Lakeland, Winter Haven, and Wesley Chapel. Weather.com warned that rainfall amounts could reach between eight to twelve inches in these regions.
Path of Hurricane Milton Across Florida
According to the National Hurricane Center, a flash flood emergency was issued for Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater following reports of over 16 inches of rainfall in some parts of the region.
Additional Coverage: Hurricane Milton Tracker: Storm Exits Florida Maintaining Category 1 Strength After Impacting the West Coast
Over 30 Category 3 Hurricanes Recorded Since 1920
On Wednesday afternoon, tornado-producing supercells began to move across the Florida Peninsula, as reported by the National Weather Service. Over 12 million individuals were under tornado warnings, as highlighted on social media by the NWS in Miami.
There were several tornado reports from central Florida, according to the Storm Prediction Center.
Flooding Caused by Hurricane Milton in Florida
It may take some time before the total impact of Milton is fully evaluated. Past hurricanes have resulted in billions of dollars in damages due to flooding, structural harm, and power outages.
