As darkness descended, a powerful storm surged onto Florida’s Gulf Coast, bringing with it deadly tornadoes and severe flooding that left millions without power and devastated communities.

Hurricane Milton, classified as a Category 3 storm, made landfall near Siesta Key in Sarasota County, Florida, at approximately 8:30 p.m. on October 10. With winds surpassing 120 mph and relentless rain, the storm caused extensive damage, leading to over 1.1 million homes and businesses losing power, with the hardest-hit areas being Sarasota, Manatee, and Hardee counties.

In response, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) urged residents through an official Facebook post to remain in their shelters and stay alert as the storm continued its onslaught.

As the hurricane approached, multiple tornadoes tore through St. Lucie County, causing significant destruction and fatalities. Sheriff Keith Pearson confirmed that “multiple fatalities” occurred at the Spanish Lakes Country Club, a senior living community near Fort Pierce. The exact death toll remains unclear as search and rescue teams continue to work tirelessly, listening for signs of life amidst the debris.