American media reported on Thursday that more than 70,000 people have sought refuge in shelters due to Hurricane Milton, which struck Florida on Wednesday evening with fierce winds and heavy rainfall, resulting in significant flooding across the state's southeastern peninsula.

Local authorities have confirmed fatalities associated with the hurricane in St. Lucie County, although details remain unclear at this time.

Hurricane Milton made landfall in Florida as a "very dangerous" Category 3 storm, accompanied by destructive storm surge, high winds, and flash flooding, according to the National Hurricane Center.

CNN noted that the impact of Hurricane Milton has revived painful memories for Floridians, coming just two weeks after another devastating storm hit the region.

The National Hurricane Center confirmed that the eye of Hurricane Milton made landfall near Siesta Key in Sarasota County on Florida's west coast.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has continued to issue warnings related to the hurricane, urging Florida residents to "take shelter" as the storm progresses through the state.

Hurricane Milton arrived just two weeks after the destructive Hurricane Helen wreaked havoc in Florida and other southeastern states, causing widespread damage and significant loss of life.