On October 9th, 2024 the state of Florida was deeply impacted by Hurricane Milton. This storm became one of the top five strongest storms in the Atlantic Basin’s history by barometric pressure when it strengthened from a Category 1 to a major Category 5 storm within only a few hours. This storm impacted millions on the Florida coastline and even had a lasting impact in the Central Florida area. By the time it made its way inland, Milton had downgraded to a Category 3 hurricane which according to the Florida Climate Center means that Central Florida saw winds between 111 – 129 mph. 

In the days prior to Milton’s arrival the people of Florida had a wide array of opinions and concerns. While some native Floridians seemed unfazed Nic Douglas said, “I am extremely anxious about this storm. There is no gas, everywhere is out of food and I’m genuinely very concerned about flooding.” That concern was not unprompted as most all gas stations were out of gas as of October 8th and stores were nearly empty. 

In the Central Florida area evacuation was not mandatory and so many chose to stay and weather the storm to try and keep roads open for the coastline residents to get to safety. Many experienced power outages and damage to their property. IMT Sonoma Hills located in Winter Garden FL showed signs of damage including roof tiles that had fallen, gutters broken, and water rising in the pond near the property. 

President Joe Biden visited Florida and said, “Thankfully the storm’s impact was not as cataclysmic as we predicted. But for some individuals, it was cataclysmic. All folks who not only lost their homes but more importantly those folks who lost their lives, lost family members.” 

IMT Sonoma Hills Apartments in Winter Garden Florida. Water levels rose tremendously during Hurricane Milton.