Damage Assessment

Hurricane Milton rained on the Sunshine State’s barely-resumed parade Wednesday night, making landfall as a Category 3 near Siesta Key (just south of Tampa). 

At least nine people died, including multiple from Milton-spawned tornadoes, and over three million homes and businesses across Florida were left without power. The powerful storm shredded the roof of the Tampa Bay Rays’ home ballpark, destroyed homes, and left debris (and cars and boats) strewn about (see pictures).

Florida Governor DeSantis called the storm “significant” but “not the worst-case scenario.” Milton’s storm surge––often the most destructive and dangerous part of a hurricane––peaked at 8-10 feet in Sarasota, sparing the more heavily populated Tampa Bay area (which installed AquaFences in anticipation of 15+ feet) from significant flooding.

Federal, state, and private aid workers have descended upon the state to begin cleaning up.

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ETERNAL PERSPECTIVE
Be quick to point to God and give him the credit for your hope, strength, and love during times dominated by uncertainty and fear. Even in the midst of chaos, our eternity is secure.

Please also join us in giving to on-the-ground relief efforts.

“The life of every living thing is in his hand, as well as the breath of all humanity.”
Job 12:10 (CSB)