Residents waiting to see what the Milton damage is after storm
Hurricane Dorian’s Devastating Aftermath: Frank Report from Bradenton, Florida
As we’re reporting live from Bradenton, Florida, the storm surge from Hurricane Dorian has left a trail of destruction in its wake. I, along with my team, were in the eye of the storm last night, and I must say, it was a harrowing experience. The storm’s back side brought strong winds, gusting up to nearly 100 mph, causing widespread damage and chaos.
Unprepared, but Fortunate
I spent most of the night on the floor of my hotel room, worried that the wind would blow out the windows. Fortunately, the building’s concrete structure and wind-rated windows for category 5 hurricanes held up, sparing us from the worst. However, many others weren’t so fortunate, and I’ve witnessed the devastating effects of the storm firsthand.
Storm Surge Brings New Woes
As we drive through the hard-hit areas, the widespread destruction is evident. The 10-foot storm surge brought in a sea of debris, further compounding the challenges for those already rebuilding. The once-peaceful neighborhoods are now littered with downed trees, including the tops of palm trees, which were sheared off by the powerful winds. It’s a daunting task for residents to clean up the mess, but it’s a crucial step toward recovery.
Sheriff’s Warning
As we venture out, we’re met with a somber scene. The sheriff’s department is on the ground, urging residents to stay off the roads until the situation becomes less dire. They stress the importance of allowing authorities to assess the damage and provide aid. Once the sun rises, the full extent of the destruction will be evident, and it’s crucial that the community comes together to support each other during this difficult time.
Stay Informed, Stay Safe
As we continue to bring you updates on Hurricane Dorian, we urge you to stay safe and informed. Follow our reports, and stay tuned to the NBC News app for breaking news and top stories. We’re committed to providing you with the latest developments on this powerful hurricane and its aftermath.