SARASOTA, United States, Oct 10, 2024 (AFP) 

Hurricane Milton unleashed a wave of destruction across Florida, causing extensive flooding, downed trees, and damaged buildings as residents braced for the aftermath of the powerful storm. Making landfall as a Category 3 hurricane near Siesta Key on Wednesday, Milton left over three million homes and businesses without power, further complicating recovery efforts in a state already recovering from a massive storm just two weeks prior.

As the storm passed over the Florida peninsula, communities faced strong winds, torrential rainfall, and the threat of flash floods. Despite weakening to a Category 1 storm, Milton still generated winds of up to 85 miles per hour, keeping residents on high alert for further damage and potential evacuation needs.

Tornadoes and Casualties
Prior to its landfall, Milton spawned multiple tornadoes, resulting in unconfirmed reports of fatalities. One twister struck a retirement community on Florida's east coast, prompting emergency responders to assess the situation. "We had multiple tornadoes touch down here in the Spanish Lakes community, and we have lost some lives," reported St. Lucie County Sheriff Keith Pearson, emphasizing the unpredictability of tornadoes during the storm. The sheriff also shared a video on social media showing the devastation caused by a tornado to their police station.

Presidential Response and Political Implications
In light of the hurricane's impacts, President Joe Biden received briefings on Milton's effects. With the U.S. presidential election just weeks away, responses from both Democratic and Republican leaders will be closely monitored. The hurricane's timing, shortly after the catastrophic Hurricane Helene, complicates the political landscape as communities deal with back-to-back disasters.

Extent of Damage
The storm's aftermath left major damages in its wake, including significant destruction to the home stadium of the Tampa Bay Rays. Video footage captured large metal panels being torn off the roof and sent flying. Airports in Tampa and Sarasota were closed until further notice, further disrupting transportation and recovery efforts.

Residents across Florida’s western coast faced a grim reality as they sheltered from the storm. In Sarasota, high winds blew glass panes from buildings, and deserted streets were littered with debris as businesses prepared for the worst. Many took refuge wherever they could find shelter, while others expressed their frustrations and fears on makeshift signs, including one that read, "Be kind, Milton."

Recovery Efforts and Past Hurricanes
Milton struck just weeks after Hurricane Helene devastated Florida and other southeastern states, leaving emergency crews still engaged in relief efforts. With over 235 fatalities attributed to Helene, which was the second-deadliest hurricane to hit the continental U.S. in over half a century, residents like Randy Prior were apprehensive about facing yet another storm. "I am nervous. This is something we just went through with the other storm — the ground is saturated, and we are still recovering from that," he shared.

Misinformation in the Aftermath
As the recovery began, U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump attempted to leverage the situation politically by making claims that storm aid was being redirected away from residents toward migrants. President Biden addressed these claims, calling them "reckless" and emphasizing the danger of misinformation during such critical times. Vice President Kamala Harris also condemned the misleading narratives, highlighting the need for accurate information to ensure that those in desperate need receive the aid they deserve.

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