On Thursday, Hurricane Milton made landfall in the Atlantic Ocean after devastating Florida, where it caused more than 3 million people to lose power, generated 150 tornadoes, and resulted in at least 12 deaths.
Hurricane Milton produced up to 18 inches of rain in certain regions, with Sarasota County experiencing the worst storm surge, which measured 8 to 10 feet.
While Hurricane Milton has passed out of Florida, flood warnings remain in certain areas.
Here are the flood warnings that remain:
- Little Manatee River at Wimauma at US 301
There has been some moderate flooding, and further flooding is predicted. On Friday morning, the river is predicted to reach a crest of 18.1 feet.
- Anclote River at Elfers at Little Road
There has been some moderate flooding, and further flooding is predicted. This is getting close to record flooding. On Friday morning, the river is predicted to reach a crest of 26.8 feet.
- Hillsborough River near Hillsborough River State Park
Major flooding is already taking place, and more is expected. This is getting close to record flooding. On Thursday night, the river is predicted to reach a crest of 16.7 feet.
- Hillsborough River at Morris Bridge
Significant flooding is anticipated. This is getting close to record flooding. It is anticipated that the river will surpass flood stage on Thursday afternoon and keep rising until it reaches a crest of 36.0 feet on Saturday night. Parts of Morris Bridge Road, approximately 0.7 miles south of the bridge, start to flood at 35.0 feet.
- Cypress Creek at SR 54 Worthington Gardens
There has been some moderate flooding, and further flooding is predicted. This is getting close to record flooding. The river is predicted to reach 15.0 feet early Saturday morning. Further increases are possible.
- Alafia River at Lithia at Lithia Pine Crest Road
There has been some moderate flooding, and further flooding is predicted. On Friday morning, the river is predicted to reach a crest of 20.4 feet.
What Should Floridians Do Next?
- Steer clear of downed powerlines. If possible, report downed lines to the power company.
Stay away from standing water and flooded regions. - Avoid wading across floodwaters as they may contain hazardous objects, sewage, live electrical wires, and wildlife.
- Try to avoid being on the roadways as much as you can. If traffic lights are off and you must drive, treat an intersection as a four-way stop sign. Driving across standing water is not advised.
- 9-1-1 is exclusively for reporting life-threatening situations, not property damage or power outages.
- Use a generator responsibly. Store generators outdoors in areas with good ventilation, far from windows, doors, and vent openings. Never operate a generator in the garage, even if the door is open.
- Power outlets with water damage may catch fire. After flooding in your home, keep the electricity off until an electrician can inspect the damage.
- When possible, take pictures of and make an inventory of all lost or damaged items, noting their age and value. Take pictures of the house’s water level. To avoid mold, remove any wet objects as soon as possible after taking pictures. Clean and disinfect anything that has encountered water.
- As soon as you can, get in touch with your insurance agent and submit a claim. Make sure you follow up any phone calls with an email or text so that you have written proof of said claim.
- Make sure you know what company any adjusters work for that are coming to your home to assess damage – this can be helpful down the line with your claim.
Our Florida Hurricane Damage Lawyers at Whittel & Melton can help you through the post-hurricane process. We can make sure your claim is submitted and that your insurance company acts in good faith. Call us at 866-608-5529 or contact us online to learn how we can help you after Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene.