Millions Without Power As Milton Slams Florida, Causes Deaths And Flooding

"TAMPA, Fla. — Hurricane Milton plowed into Florida as a Category 3 storm Wednesday, bringing misery to a coast still ravaged by Helene, pounding cities with winds of over 100 mph (160 kph) after producing a barrage of tornadoes, but sparing Tampa a direct hit.

The storm tracked to the south in the final hours and made landfall in Siesta Key near Sarasota, about 70 miles (112 kilometers) south of Tampa. The situation in the Tampa area was still a major emergency as St. Petersburg recorded over 16 inches (41 centimeters) of rain, prompting the National Weather Service to warn of flash flooding.

Tropicana Field, the home of the Tampa Bay Rays in St. Petersburg, appeared to be badly damaged. Television images Wednesday night showed that the fabric that serves as the domed building’s roof had been ripped to shreds. It was not immediately clear if there was damage inside the stadium."

Terry Spencer and Kate Payne report for the Associated Press October 10, 2024.

SEE ALSO:

Live Updates: "Hurricane Milton Leaves More Than 3 Million Homes And Businesses Without Power" (AP)

"Hurricane Milton Inundates Florida With Dangerous Flooding After Landfall" (CNN)

Front Page (Tampa Bay Times)

Source: AP, 10/10/2024