The United States has had its fair share of tropical storms and hurricanes for the 2024 season. The Center for Disaster Philanthropy stated that “there have been 13 named storms, including 4 tropical storms and nine hurricanes” (2024). The most recent hurricane of the season, Milton, became the second most intense Atlantic hurricane ever recorded over the Gulf of Mexico according to Vogue.
Milton had already started forming in the Atlantic two weeks after hurricane Helene made landfall across the Appalachia area. Milton had fluctuated in intensity after an eyewall replacement cycle, which made the hurricane re-intensified into a Category 5 the following day. However, due to the increasing wind shear, the hurricane weakened as it turned to Florida, turning into a Category 3 hurricane before making landfall in the Siesta Keys.
After making an impact in the Siesta Keys, the National Hurricane Center examined that the hurricane would affect several parts of Florida, including the heavily populated Tampa Bay region, St. Petersburg, Sarasot and Fort Myers. These were the areas that were going to be hit heavily with rain, flooding and extreme winds.
Residents of these areas were advised to evacuate multiple days leading up to Milton’s landfall. However, before individuals decided to evacuate, they prepared their homes for the destruction about to come.
Days leading up to hurricane Milton, grocery stores were empty as shelves were completely cleared of water, bread and easy to cook meals. Not only were grocery stores empty, but gas stations in surrounding areas were also reportedly out of gas. This left many individuals without a way to evacuate from the homes because they did not have enough gas to get them to safety. People started hunkering down in their bathrooms, closets and basements to stay safe during the storm.
The majority of Florida was hit with intense winds, extreme flooding and spawned in about 41 or more tornadoes according to USA Today. This left a path of extreme destruction to areas such as Tampa Bay and Sarasota. According to CBS News, 75% of individuals in Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Manatee were reported having no electricity during and after the hurricane. WNKY News reported on Oct. 21 that the death toll in Florida for Milton stands at approximately 32 individuals.
Hurricane Milton was one of the most detrimental hurricanes to ever hit Florida. Many people still lack access to clean water, food and continue to be displaced. If you are able to give these communities some relief, visit; greatergood.org to help individuals rebuild their lives.
