Runner Dies in Hurricane Milton in Tampa, Many Others Missing
More Than 2 Million Without Power as Hurricane Milton Slams Florida, Causes Deaths and Flooding
BY TERRY SPENCER AND KATE PAYNE
Updated 5:04 AM GMT+1, October 10, 2024
TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — A devastating blow hit Tampa Bay as Hurricane Milton, a Category 3 storm, tore through Florida, leaving widespread destruction, including the tragic death of a marathon runner. The runner, whose identity has not yet been released, was caught in the storm while participating in a race before Milton’s landfall. Rescue efforts have been hindered by the raging weather, and authorities fear that many others are missing, swept away by the intense winds and flash floods.
Milton, with winds surpassing 100 mph (160 kph), skirted Tampa but made landfall 70 miles south in Siesta Key. However, Tampa’s St. Petersburg region still saw over 16 inches of rain, causing severe flooding and damage. The roof of Tropicana Field, home to the Tampa Bay Rays, was reportedly shredded by the powerful winds.
Over 2 million residents are now without power, mainly in Hardee, Sarasota, and Manatee counties. Emergency services are working to restore essential services while continuing the search for the missing. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed as rescue efforts remain ongoing.
