Officials in Volusia County have confirmed that four individuals lost their lives as a result of the significant impacts caused by Tropical Storm Milton. At a news conference held on Thursday afternoon, it was revealed that the storm brought sustained winds of 62 mph to the county, with gusts reaching as high as 87 mph.
Two of the fatalities occurred in different locations within the county. One individual tragically lost their life in Port Orange, while another fatality was reported in Ormond Beach. Both victims succumbed to injuries caused by falling trees, as stated by Clint Mecham, the county's emergency management director.
Additionally, one of the deaths was attributed to a heart attack suffered by an individual while they were in the process of boarding up their property in preparation for the storm. Another person tragically passed away from cardiac arrest, as emergency responders were unable to reach them in time during the peak of the storm's impact, according to Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood.
Sheriff Chitwood emphasized the severity of the situation, highlighting the challenges faced by the community in the aftermath of the storm. He underscored the need for collective support and cooperation to facilitate the recovery process, acknowledging that the county is facing a prolonged period of rebuilding and restoration.
As Volusia County grapples with the aftermath of Tropical Storm Milton and mourns the loss of four individuals, the community is urged to come together and assist in the recovery efforts. The impact of the storm serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of natural disasters.