Hurricane “Milton” which struck Florida on Wednesday evening left victims and devastation in its wake, leaving more than two million people plunged into darkness.
In St. Lucie County, authorities reported “several victims” among the elderly, according to Sheriff Keith Pearson, quoted by the media WPBF, according to the Associated Press (AP), without specifying the number.
“We want to reach anyone who might be trapped under the rubble or in these situations and get them out safely,” Pearson told Fox Weather, noting that 17 tornadoes swept through the county and destroyed hundreds of homes.
The hurricane brought violent winds and caused significant flooding in certain areas which saw some 125 houses destroyed, while the American National Hurricane Center reported gusts of 150 km/h.
At least nine tornadoes swept through Florida, preceding the arrival of the powerful hurricane which caused colossal damage to the Tropicana Field stadium in Tampa Bay, the roof of which was torn off, according to a publication by an American meteorologist on X.
According to Palm Beach County firefighters, several people found themselves trapped under the rubble or in cars overturned by the strong gusts caused by “Milton” which weakened into a storm.
Shortly after 2 a.m., Hurricane Milton returned to category 1, according to the National Hurricane Center, but the winds remained powerful with gusts of more than 140 km/h, reported the New York Times.
