Hurricane Milton death toll rises to 10 as Florida reels from storm havoc
Tornadoes lash St. Lucie County, five dead
The grim death toll from Hurricane Milton has risen to 10. Officials in St. Lucie County confirmed five people died after tornadoes ripped through the area, up from four earlier reports. Rescue teams are still combing through debris in a desperate search for survivors.
Orange City battered – roads collapse under storm fury
North of Orlando, Orange City has taken a brutal hit. The fire department revealed multiple roads and pavements have collapsed with tarmac smashed to bits. Authorities are urging drivers to avoid the streets until damage can be repaired and it’s safe to travel.
Mass rescues in Tampa and Pasco County
- In Hillsborough County, Tampa’s sheriff Chad Chronister deployed boats and amphibious vehicles to rescue 135 elderly residents from an assisted living facility.
- Additional rescue operations saved numerous others at a Holiday Inn in Plant City.
- Pasco County emergency crews rescued 22 people, while more than 100 residents were evacuated from another assisted living home in Tampa.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s marine unit led those major efforts.
Charlotte County resumes emergency response
Emergency services in Charlotte County, southeast of Tampa, have restarted responding to calls after pausing due to hazardous conditions from the hurricane.
As Hurricane Milton’s full destruction becomes clearer, Florida officials are scrambling to coordinate aid and support for the battered communities.
