Anderson Cooper hit by debris during live Hurricane Milton broadcast, continues reporting unfazed

Just minutes after Hurricane Milton made landfall with 120 mph winds at Siesta Key, Florida, CNN anchor Anderson Cooper experienced his own dramatic encounter with the storm. 

While conducting a live standup in Bradenton, Florida—located just a few miles north of Siesta Key—Cooper was hit by a piece of flying debris. 

Demonstrating his professionalism, Cooper quickly acknowledged the incident, exclaiming, “Woah! That wasn’t good. We’ll probably go inside shortly,” before continuing with his report.

Cooper wasn’t alone in facing the fury of Hurricane Milton.

CNN’s Bill Weir, positioned in St. Petersburg, also braved the elements when the storm made landfall. 

Weir described the conditions as “slop,” referring to the intense mix of wind and rain. In a moment of levity, he lost his red CNN hat and was blown right out of the frame during his broadcast, showcasing the severe weather’s chaotic impact.

Meanwhile, over at The Weather Channel, veteran meteorologist Jim Cantore took shelter in a Port Charlotte parking garage to avoid wind-borne projectiles. 

Despite his precautions, he noted that the harbor had “literally taken over the parking area” as flooding overtook the city.

Cantore, a seasoned hurricane reporter, has faced his share of danger in the past. Viewers may recall a prior incident during Hurricane Ian, where he was struck by a flying tree branch while reporting live, prompting many to question the safety of reporters in extreme weather conditions.