Hurricane Milton’s Winds Top 120 mph, Damage Roofs and Power Lines in St. Petersburg Area

Hurricane Milton tore through Florida, bringing winds of up to 120 mph and leaving at least 10 people dead. While the feared storm surge was less than expected, the storm inflicted severe damage on buildings, infrastructure, and crops. In the St. Petersburg area, structures like Tropicana Field saw roof damage, while tornados added to destruction across the state’s east side. Around 2.4 million Floridians remain without power, and utility companies are working to restore service. Meanwhile, emergency officials are warning residents to be cautious around debris and downed power lines as they return home. Estimates suggest that losses could reach up to $180 billion as authorities continue to assess the full extent of the damage.

The impacts of Hurricane Milton stand in contrast to the recent Hurricane Helene, which primarily caused flooding. Milton’s destruction was driven largely by wind, especially in areas like St. Petersburg, Sarasota, and Palm Beach. Tornadoes in the storm’s southeast quadrant compounded the damage inland. With power outages affecting millions, businesses like Disney World and SeaWorld are slowly reopening, while others, such as agricultural producers, face long-term losses.