Hurricane Milton turns deadly: Catastrophic flooding hits Florida, 1.5 million without power

Monster storm Hurricane Milton has struck Florida, with the first fatalities reported as the state endures 'catastrophic' flooding and 120mph winds.

According to the National Weather Service, flash floods are impacting the Tampa Bay area, including St. Petersburg, which has seen over 16 inches of rainfall so far.

More than 1.5 million homes and businesses were without power as of Wednesday night in Florida, and about 125 homes have been completely destroyed.

Additionally, St. Lucie County's Sheriff confirmed 'multiple fatalities' after a tornado hit the area ahead of the hurricane. 

Sheriff Keith Pearson mentioned the deaths occurred when the tornado struck the Spanish Lakes Country Club in Fort Pierce, where many had taken shelter.

Milton hit a region of Florida still recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Helene, which caused extensive damage to beach communities with storm surges and claimed the lives of twelve people in Pinellas County.

Officials had issued urgent evacuation orders, warning of severe consequences for those who stayed.

“This is it, folks,” stated Cathie Perkins, emergency management director for Pinellas County. “Those of you who were punched during Hurricane Helene, this is going to be a knockout. You need to get out, and you need to get out now.”

The National Hurricane Centre's latest update confirmed that Milton’s catastrophic effects on Florida’s west coast had begun.

Reports indicate entire palm trees were uprooted, and videos show vehicles fleeing the approaching storm.

One NOAA video revealed massive 28-foot waves—longer than a London bus—while footage shows crackling violet lightning and photos depict destroyed homes and deserted streets.