Additional Coverage:
A Florida sailor survived Hurricane Milton by clinging to a cooler. Despite dangerous conditions, the Coast Guard found the man alive 30 miles offshore.
The unidentified sailor made a mayday call from his small fishing vessel as the hurricane approached. High winds and waves prevented an immediate rescue, but a helicopter located him the next day.
The man’s arm was slung over the cooler, keeping him afloat in 25-foot waves and 75-90 mph winds.
Hurricane Milton caused significant damage in Florida, killing at least 16 people and causing billions in damages. However, the impact was less severe than predicted, thanks to lessons learned from Hurricane Helene two weeks prior.
The sailor’s survival is a testament to both his resilience and the power of a well-placed cooler.