Hurricane Milton has unleashed its fury on Florida’s Gulf Coast, making landfall as a Category 3 storm near Siesta Key on Wednesday night. Packing sustained winds of 120 mph, the storm has triggered life-threatening storm surges of up to 13 feet, leaving coastal communities submerged. As it moved inland, widespread power outages have left more than 2 million Floridians in the dark, with authorities warning of worsening conditions. Tornadoes spawned by the hurricane have damaged homes and infrastructure, and emergency teams are on high alert.

**Storm Surge and Flooding Devastate Coastal Areas**

One of the most dangerous aspects of Hurricane Milton has been the massive storm surge, which has inundated cities like Sarasota and Fort Myers. As ocean water swept into normally dry areas, residents faced severe flash flooding, with some homes completely submerged. The National Weather Service warned that the storm’s surge, coupled with heavy rain, could result in flooding reaching over 13 feet in some places, threatening lives and property along the coast.

**Tornadoes Add to Destruction**

The already-devastating winds were accompanied by numerous tornadoes spawned by the hurricane’s outer bands. Several tornado warnings were issued throughout Florida, causing damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure across the state. Tornadoes have hit central and northern Florida, leaving debris strewn across roads, and complicating rescue efforts.

**Power Outages Leave Millions in the Dark**

Power outages are widespread, with more than 2 million homes and businesses across Florida without electricity. As the hurricane’s fierce winds knocked down power lines and damaged electrical infrastructure, utilities are preparing for an extended restoration process. Some areas could be without power for days, further straining emergency response operations.

**Emergency Response and Preparations**

State and local authorities have activated emergency response plans as the storm continues to wreak havoc. Search and rescue teams are preparing to enter the hardest-hit areas once conditions improve, while shelters have been opened for displaced residents. Governor Ron DeSantis has urged Floridians to stay off the roads and adhere to evacuation orders in areas still at risk of flooding and storm surges.

**The Path Ahead**

Though Hurricane Milton is expected to weaken as it moves inland, its effects will continue to be felt across the southeastern United States. Heavy rains will persist through Thursday, potentially causing flash floods in areas far from the coast. As the storm crosses the state, officials are urging caution and continued vigilance, warning that even weakened, Milton remains dangerous.

**Looking Forward**

With damage already extensive and the storm still raging, it will take days to fully assess the hurricane’s toll. Emergency responders will be working around the clock to rescue those trapped by floods and downed trees, while utility companies race to restore power. This storm is expected to go down as one of the most destructive hurricanes to hit Florida’s Gulf Coast in recent history.

For ongoing updates, stay tuned to local weather alerts and news.

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