Siesta Key, Florida, is in the direct path of Hurricane Milton, which made landfall earlier today, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC). The storm, classified as one of the strongest hurricanes of the century, has prompted emergency warnings across South Florida. With winds reaching over 130 km/h (81 mph), Siesta Key and surrounding regions are facing severe weather conditions.
Tampa Bay Hit Hard
Tampa Bay has already felt the brunt of the storm. Late Wednesday night, heavy rains and powerful winds caused widespread power outages, affecting over 1.5 million homes and businesses. Residents are also being warned about potential thunderstorms and tornadoes in central and southern Florida as Hurricane Milton continues its destructive course.
Dangerous Waves Threaten Coastal Areas
The National Weather Service has also issued warnings for dangerous wave conditions along the Gulf Coast, with surges expected to reach 8 to 12 feet (2.4 to 3.6 meters). Authorities have evacuated coastal residents, including those in Siesta Key, in preparation for further impact.
National Emergency Response
In response to the hurricane, President Joe Biden has declared a state of emergency in Florida and has deployed 7,000 rescue workers to assist in recovery efforts. As the storm intensifies, Biden emphasized the seriousness of the situation, postponing his scheduled trips and urging citizens to prioritize their safety. He warned that Hurricane Milton could become one of the most devastating storms in Florida’s history.
A Look at the Past
While Hurricane Milton continues to wreak havoc, the storm has drawn comparisons to other catastrophic weather events in U.S. history, including the great blizzard of 1888. However, experts warn that this hurricane could leave an even more lasting impact on Siesta Key and the entire state of Florida.
