Hurricane Milton Strikes Florida, Causing Severe Damage

Hurricane Milton has caused significant damage across Florida, with at least eight fatalities reported and over 3 million residents left without power. The storm, which made landfall as a Category 3 hurricane, narrowly spared densely populated areas like Tampa from a direct hit, although it did wreak havoc on barrier islands and local infrastructure, including tearing the roof off the Tampa Bay Rays stadium. As residents begin the recovery process, relief efforts are underway, with theme parks and Orlando International Airport planning to resume operations shortly. Preparations were evident as locals, including businesses and families, stocked up on supplies and secured properties ahead of the storm's arrival. The hurricane's impact is compounded by the recent devastation from Hurricane Helene just two weeks prior, raising concerns about the resilience of affected communities. While the immediate focus is on recovery, long-term implications for Florida’s vital tourism industry remain a critical concern.