SIESTA KEY, Florida (TXAN 24 News) — Hurricane Milton roared ashore in Siesta Key, Florida, just minutes ago as a Category 3 storm, unleashing winds of 120 mph and torrential rains on the popular coastal destination. The hurricane has already begun flooding streets, toppling trees, and leaving thousands without power as it moves inland.
Siesta Key and the surrounding areas, including Sarasota and Venice, are bearing the brunt of the storm, with storm surges of up to 10 feet inundating coastal neighborhoods. Authorities have been urging residents to evacuate for days, but many stayed behind to weather the storm, leaving emergency services bracing for rescue efforts once the worst passes.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency, warning that conditions remain dangerous despite Milton weakening slightly before landfall. “The storm surge and flooding from Milton are still extremely dangerous, and residents need to stay off the roads and in safe locations,” he said.
With heavy rainfall expected to continue for hours, forecasters predict as much as 15 inches of rain in some areas, raising the risk of flash floods. Tornado watches have been issued for parts of central and southern Florida as Milton’s outer bands sweep across the state.
Emergency crews are standing by to assess the damage and begin rescue operations as soon as conditions allow. Stay tuned to TXAN 24 News for continuing coverage of Hurricane Milton and its impact on Florida.
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