Hurricane Milton, initially upgraded to a Category 5 storm, has been downgraded to a Category 3 as it approaches the Gulf Coast, causing significant destruction across Florida. The storm has damaged structures such as the Tampa Bay Rays' Tropicana Field, brought down trees, and spawned tornadoes in areas like Bradenton and St. Lucie. Millions have evacuated due to the hurricane's powerful winds and rain, which have been reported in Manatee County as severe weather conditions. NOAA's research using Saildrone technology captured wave heights of over 28 feet and wind gusts nearing 76 mph near the storm's center, contributing to the understanding of oceanic impacts on hurricane development. The hurricane is predicted to be one of the most powerful to hit the US in a century. Emergency services may be unavailable in mandatory evacuation zones during the storm.