Florida governor desantis gives post milton damage update

SARASOTA, Fla. — Hurricane Milton made landfall in Sarasota County on Wednesday night, sweeping across central Florida with powerful winds, heavy rains, and destructive tornadoes. The storm has caused widespread flooding and damage, prompting immediate search and rescue operations that continue across the region.

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Governor Ron DeSantis provided an update early Thursday, noting that National Guard, State Guard, Fish and Wildlife Commission personnel, as well as local law enforcement and first responders, are actively conducting rescue missions in the most impacted areas.

Power outages are extensive, with over 3 million households affected. Restoration efforts are underway, and 635,996 accounts have already been brought back online as of 6:00 a.m. More than 50,000 linemen are in the state working to restore electricity efficiently and safely. “Be cautious of hazards like downed power lines and operate generators a safe distance from your house,” officials warned residents who are beginning to assess the damage to their properties.

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has initiated “Cut and Toss” operations to clear roadways, and 150 bridge inspectors are conducting safety assessments to ensure structures can reopen in impacted areas. Authorities are urging non-residents to avoid traveling to the storm-affected regions to keep roadways clear for emergency crews, FDOT personnel, and utility workers.

The situation remains fluid as crews continue to respond to urgent needs and work toward restoring essential services. Further updates will be provided as conditions improve and more detailed damage assessments are completed.

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