Clearwater, a city hit hard by Hurricane Milton, faced a significant challenge as more than 500 people were rescued from an apartment complex in a non-evacuation zone overnight. The city's mayor, Bruce Rector, reported that some individuals had to be rescued from chest-deep and neck-deep floodwaters.
Mayor Rector highlighted the difficulties faced by first responders, who were inundated with 911 calls immediately after the hurricane made landfall. Due to dangerous winds, their response was delayed, prioritizing their safety before assisting those in need.
Despite successful evacuations from designated areas, the flooded apartment complex was located in a zone that had not been ordered to evacuate. The unexpected intensity of the rainfall led to the rapid flooding of the complex, catching residents off guard.
Looking ahead, Mayor Rector expressed concerns about finding suitable shelter for the displaced residents. He emphasized the immense challenges faced by the community, likening the situation to experiencing two major hurricanes in quick succession.
The aftermath of Hurricane Milton has left Clearwater grappling with the impact of severe flooding, underscoring the importance of preparedness and swift response in the face of natural disasters.
