Florida

More than 3 million Floridians were without power after Milton. In some areas like Siesta Key, damage was severe. In Sarasota, many residents were thankful things were not worse.

Florida residents are being encouraged to shelter in place, as hazards such as storm surges, tornadoes and high winds and flash flood warnings were extended into early Thursday morning.

In spite of the very real threat to their homes, belongings and livelihoods, many Floridians in Milton's potential path remained in good spirits hours before its expected landfall.

Hurricane Milton made landfall Wednesday evening near Siesta Key in Sarasota County along the west coast of Florida as the National Hurricane Center warned of life-threatening storm surges.

Communities along Florida's west coast are bracing for a life-threatening storm. Many residents are taking Milton very seriously, heeding calls to evacuate to higher ground. Others are staying put.

Hurricane Milton has once again surged to Category 5 strength. Officials say residents should rush to finish preparing for the storm.

Milton has grown quickly and is forecast to make landfall in Florida midweek. The state could see its largest evacuation orders since 2017.

Helene made landfall late on Thursday in Florida’s Big Bend region as a Category 4 Hurricane. It weakened Friday morning to a tropical storm with sustained winds of 70 mph.

People with disabilities, people who can't afford it and people who don't want to abandon their pets are among the many who can't easily get up and leave before a hurricane.

Helene is forecast to intensify rapidly over the Gulf of Mexico before making landfall in Florida on Thursday. Residents are urged to make preparations — and in many counties, evacuate — before then.