3 minutes ago
Tampa and Pinellas County residents urged to stay sheltered amid widespread flooding and damage .
From CNN’s Paul P. Murphy and Holly Yan
After Hurricane Milton’s destructive landfall as a Category 3 storm, Pinellas County issued a strong warning on Thursday urging residents to stay sheltered due to widespread devastation. Emergency alerts cited impassable roads, downed power lines, and water shortages in areas like St. Petersburg, Gulfport, and Lealman. Residents were told to avoid the roads until officials declare it safe to travel, allowing emergency crews to focus on rescue operations.
In nearby Tampa, where power outages have affected large areas, city officials warned residents to stay off the roads and wait for an official all-clear. Flooding remains a major concern across Hillsborough County as heavy rains continue.
Hillsborough County Sheriff: Patience Required as Rescue Efforts Progress
5 minutes ago
From CNN's Artemis Moshtaghian
Sheriff Chad Chronister of Hillsborough County emphasized the challenges rescue crews face while clearing debris and downed trees. With many roads blocked by floodwaters, crews are forced to change routes frequently. In the hardest-hit areas, including assisted living facilities, rescuers have deployed airboats to evacuate people from dangerous conditions. Chronister urged residents to stay sheltered, warning that the situation remains too hazardous for movement.
Flooding in Tampa Persists, Mayor Warns
35 minutes ago
From CNN's Andy Rose
Tampa Mayor Jane Castor warned that while the worst of the storm surge was avoided, the city still faces flooding threats. High tide expected this morning could lead to more severe flooding across Hillsborough County. The mayor plans to survey damage, with power outages already affecting most of the city.
Palm Beach County Hit by Tornadoes, Residents Rescued from Debris
1 hour, 11 minutes ago
From CNN's Sara Smart
In Palm Beach County, residents were rescued from overturned vehicles and under debris after tornadoes ripped through the area on Wednesday night. Tornado warnings lasted nearly an hour, with homes and vehicles severely damaged. Fire officials continue to clear the area of debris and are urging residents to stay off the roads while rescue efforts are underway.
Tropicana Field Roof Destroyed
51 minutes ago
From CNN's Holly Yan and Kathleen Magramo
Hurricane Milton tore off the roof of Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, which was designated as a base camp for storm personnel. Despite the damage, no injuries were reported. Residents are advised to avoid the area as recovery efforts continue.
Unprecedented Power Outages in Tampa
39 minutes ago
From CNN's Andy Rose
Tampa Electric reports that 70% of its customers are without power due to Milton’s impact. The full extent of the damage to the power grid remains unknown, as utility crews cannot begin assessments until it is safe to do so.
Milton Moves East, But Dangers Persist
1 hour, 25 minutes ago
From CNN's Jessie Yeung
The eye of Hurricane Milton has now moved off Florida’s east coast, but flash floods and high winds continue to pose significant threats, particularly in areas along the Treasure Coast. Inland flooding remains a major concern as rivers swell with rainwater, potentially worsening conditions in already-flooded areas.
Florida Officials Await Daylight to Assess Damage
4 hours ago
From CNN's Sara Smart
Authorities across Florida are waiting for daylight to better assess the destruction caused by Hurricane Milton. In Tampa, Charlotte County, and other areas, first responders are preparing for what may be an overwhelming day of rescue and recovery efforts. With hospitals closed and power outages widespread, officials remain on high alert.
Hurricane Milton continues to leave a trail of destruction across Florida, with floodwaters, power outages, and debris creating life-threatening conditions for many residents. Rescue efforts are ongoing, but authorities stress that it may take days to fully understand the hurricane's toll on the state.
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