DINH DOONG

As Hurricane Milton makes landfall in Florida at 9:00 PM, forecasters are warning of life-threatening conditions, including storm surges potentially reaching 15 feet. Already, nearly 800,000 people have lost power as heavy winds and rain inundate the Gulf Coast. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis urges residents to hunker down until the storm passes.

CBS News correspondent Christian Benitez, reporting from Tampa, describes deteriorating conditions, with strong winds making it difficult to travel. Residents sharing their experiences express shock at the storm’s impact, having not witnessed such intensity in decades.

Power outages are increasing, particularly notable in Hillsborough County, where over 100,000 residents are affected. Gas shortages complicate evacuation efforts, especially for those already displaced from Barrier Islands by previous storms.

Meteorologist Albert Ramone confirms that Milton made landfall near Siesta Key, coming with sustained winds of 115 mph. Heavy rainfall is causing flash flood warnings across the Tampa Bay area, with emergency authorities implying the risk of catastrophic flooding due to rapid rainfall rates.

Deputy Director of the National Hurricane Center, Jamie Rome, emphasizes the intensity of the rain and advises residents to remain indoors. As Milton progresses inland, Florida’s East Coast will also experience hurricane-force winds, underscoring the need for safety amid ongoing threats.

In Tampa, reporter Anna Maller updates on increasingly severe conditions, with flooding in parking lots and damaging winds affecting structures. She reinforces the importance of staying indoors as the storm rages on.

The situation remains fluid, and updates will continue as Hurricane Milton’s impact unfolds.