Florida

Theme parks and the airport in Orlando announced reopenings Friday, but much of the state remained in the dark and short of fuel after the storm knocked out power to millions.

The area has not taken a direct hit from a hurricane in over 100 years. But its topography and dense population make it especially susceptible to severe damage from storm surges.

In spite of the very real threat to their homes, belongings and livelihoods, many Floridians in Milton's potential path remained in good spirits hours before its expected landfall.

Hurricane Milton made landfall Wednesday evening near Siesta Key in Sarasota County along the west coast of Florida as the National Hurricane Center warned of life-threatening storm surges.

Communities along Florida's west coast are bracing for a life-threatening storm. Many residents are taking Milton very seriously, heeding calls to evacuate to higher ground. Others are staying put.

Hurricane Milton has once again surged to Category 5 strength. Officials say residents should rush to finish preparing for the storm.

Milton has grown quickly and is forecast to make landfall in Florida midweek. The state could see its largest evacuation orders since 2017.

Hurricane Milton is expected to reach maximum wind speeds of 145 miles per hour. The National Hurricane Center urged Florida residents to complete storm preparations and seek safety before Wednesday.

Helene is forecast to intensify rapidly over the Gulf of Mexico before making landfall in Florida on Thursday. Residents are urged to make preparations — and in many counties, evacuate — before then.

Tropical Storm Helene's trajectory threatens the Florida panhandle, which forecasters say could be hit on Thursday. Meteorologists say this system will be particularly big -- with a wide wind field.