Jane Castor, Mayor of Tampa, shares the city's struggles as Hurricane Milton knocks out power to over 500,000 homes. Randy Kay and Bill Weir provide on-the-ground reports from Sarasota and St. Petersburg, highlighting severe storm impacts. Meteorologist Chad Myers analyzes Milton's path and intensity, while Boris Sanchez and Carlos Suarez detail flooding conditions across Tampa and Fort Myers. Dr. Megan Martin recounts her experiences in a St. Petersburg hospital during the hurricane, emphasizing the urgent challenges faced by medical staff.
Hurricane Milton's landfall in Bradenton revealed intense conditions with 120 MPH winds and severe rainfall, impacting local residents significantly.
Emergency services in Sarasota and Tampa are on high alert, addressing property damage and potential flooding as the storm progresses.
Community efforts highlighted in Fort Myers show vulnerability as residents cope with the aftermath of recent storms and ongoing flooding threats.
Deep dives
Ryan Reynolds and Mint Mobile's Affordable Plan
The episode begins with Ryan Reynolds highlighting the unexpected longevity of his commercial series for Mint Mobile. He emphasizes the cost-effectiveness of Mint Mobile's unlimited premium wireless plan, which is priced at only $15 per month. Reynolds expresses his confusion as to why many consumers continue to pay significantly higher rates for their wireless services. He encourages listeners to consider Mint Mobile as a viable alternative by visiting their website.
Severe Weather Conditions in Bradenton, Florida
The episode shifts to a report from Anderson Cooper in Bradenton, where worsening weather conditions are noted as winds and rains escalate. Cooper provides a vivid description of the local environment, including the sight of palm tree branches being torn off by strong gusts. He also mentions visible transformers that have been exploding, adding to the chaos. The report emphasizes the danger surrounding the area as residents receive alert notifications to shelter in place.
Impact of Storm Surge in Sarasota and Surrounding Areas
In a segment focusing on conditions in Sarasota, Randy Kay describes the aftermath of strong winds that resulted in flying debris and property damage. She notes how the rain has temporarily subsided, but the threat remains, with storm surge predictions indicating up to 13 feet. Emergency services are on standby, providing updates on the situation. The segment highlights the community's response, as many residents evacuated prior to the storm's impact.
Flooding and Rainfall in Tampa
As the report shifts to Tampa, Boris Sanchez discusses the heavy rainfall experienced in the area, amounting to around six inches within a few hours. The forecast indicates an additional five to eight inches expected, creating a risk of significant flooding. Sanchez observes that residents had previously ventured outdoors, taking risks to capture photos, but advisories had urged them to stay inside. He points out that many neighborhoods are already experiencing flooding, complicating conditions for both residents and responders.
Challenges of Hurricane Recovery in Fort Myers
Carlos Suarez addresses the difficult situation in Fort Myers, where water from the Caloosahatchee River is dangerously close to breaching the seawall. He describes the ongoing threat of flooding from both rain and storm surge, and how the area is still recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Ian less than two weeks prior. Predictions suggest that storm surge might reach eight to twelve feet in some locations. The intensity of the situation illustrates community vulnerability and the impact of consecutive storms within a short duration.
Anderson is on the ground in Bradenton, Florida as Hurricane Milton makes landfall. Holmes Beach Police Chief William Tokajer joins to provide updates from Palmetto and insights on how many people have likely evacuated his jurisdiction. Plus, Tampa Mayor Jane Castor joins as more than 500,000 Florida homes and businesses are without power.