On October 13, 2024, Hurricane Milton struck Florida, causing an estimated $50 billion in damages, according to U.S. President Joe Biden. This marks the third major storm to hit Florida in just three months.
Over three million people were left without electricity due to the hurricane. However, thanks to the efforts of 50,000 workers from 43 states and Canada, power has been restored to one million individuals.
Vice President Kamala Harris noted the extensive destruction caused by the storm, stating that homes and neighborhoods suffered severe damage, with millions still without power and thousands lacking access to clean water.
The death toll from Hurricane Milton has reached at least 16, with over two million households and businesses still without electricity. Some areas remain flooded, prompting warnings from Florida Governor Ron DeSantis about rising water levels.
Due to the hurricane's impact, President Biden postponed his trip to Germany, where he was scheduled to attend a meeting of the Ukraine Support Contact Group, commonly referred to as the Ramstein meeting. This meeting has since been officially delayed.