In the wake of Hurricane Milton which landed on Oct. 9 communities are dealing with the devastating aftermath as cleanup efforts begin in the regions affected. With winds reaching a sustained 120 mph and widespread flooding, residents have come together to assess damage, provide aid and begin a long road to recovery.  

“It’s sad to see the damages and what is taking place from such a big storm. It’s good to see people supporting one another in a hard time,” said senior Brady Ford.  

Rescue teams picked residents out of the flooding from Milton after the storm. Milton smashed through coastal communities and tore homes to pieces, streets were filled with mud and with Milton came an influx of deadly tornadoes. 

“At least 17 people have been confirmed dead in Florda in the hurricanes aftermath, including at least five due to tornadoes in St. Lucie County,” according to nbcmiami.com on Oct 18.  

“We all remorse the loss of loved ones lost in the hurricane and surrounding tornadoes. It’s a sad time for everyone involved and I hope they receive all the help they need,” said senior Delaney Emerson. 

Despite the mass destruction many people were glad the storm was not worse. The hurricane spared the city of Tampa from a direct hit from the lethal storm that scientists feared would come.  

“The storm tracked to the south in the final hours and made landfall as a category 3 hurricane in Siesta Key, about 70 miles south of Tampa. Damage was widespread, and water levels continued to rise for many days,” according to nbcmiami.com.  

Milton has undeniably left a profound mark on the communities it affected, this natural disaster demonstrated the power of nature and how important it is for communities of people to come together to help each other. Moving forward it is crucial for agencies and communities to continue to come together to ensure that individuals impacted receive the support they need to rebuild their lives.