Additional Coverage:
- Over 3 million people in Florida are without power: here are the challenges in one hard-hit county (foxbusiness.com)
Hurricane Milton has left over 3 million Floridians without power. Hillsborough County, including Tampa, has been heavily impacted, with nearly 600,000 of TECO’s customers without electricity.
TECO has deployed 6,000 utility workers to restore power, but the extent of the damage is significant. Helicopters are assessing the transmission grid, while ground crews navigate flooded areas and downed trees.
First responders are facing challenges in rescue efforts due to downed trees entangled with electrical wires. Tampa’s mayor, Jane Castor, reports that 65% of traffic lights are out.
TECO expects some customers to have power restored by Thursday, but it could take longer for others. Critical infrastructure, such as hospitals and nursing homes, will be prioritized for restoration.
Officials urge residents to be patient and assist in taking care of their neighbors. They emphasize that it will take time to restore power, but they are committed to working around the clock to get the lights back on.