Latest developments on Lieutenant Dan, who is attempting to endure Hurricane Milton despite warnings from local authorities.
The Tenacity of Lieutenant Dan During Hurricane Milton
Joseph Malinowski, known as “Lieutenant Dan,” has captured the public’s attention.
This viral TikTok star chose to remain on his boat despite warnings to evacuate for Hurricane Milton. His determination has made him a popular figure online.
Lieutenant Dan, also known as Sea Joe, gained fame through TikToker Terrence Concannon.
He was first introduced to audiences before Storm Helene last month.
Concannon documented Dan’s life on his 20ft boat at Bayshore Boulevard. This was before Storm Helene impacted six states, including parts of Florida.
@terrenceconcannon Lieutenant Dan is the man
Lieutenant Dan waited out Hurricane Milton approaches
When Hurricane Milton made landfall, it was one of the strongest storms in the North Atlantic. Winds reached 120 mph as it hit Sarasota County. U.S. officials urged residents to evacuate or stay inside if unable to leave. However, Lieutenant Dan chose neither option.
In a video, he confidently said, “bring it on,” regarding the severe storm warning. Concannon and even the Chief of Tampa police tried to persuade Dan to leave his boat. Their efforts proved unsuccessful.
Despite the threat of Hurricane Milton, Lieutenant Dan reportedly said that his boat is the safest plac
He explained, “The water’s going to come in and rise. If you’re on land, you risk drowning.” He feels the boat will rise with the water, keeping him safe.
Joe claims that “God” told him to get a boat, feeling reassured by this guidance.
He stated, “He’s got my back. I’m in good shape. I’m not sweating it.”
The latest update on Lieutenant Dan
Terrence Concannon recently posted an update on Dan’s fate on TikTok.
Just before midnight, he confirmed, “Dan is still alive, guys!” He invited followers to join him on the streaming site Kick. Concannon added, “[Dan] is alive and he is buzzing.” He also mentioned that streamer Adin Ross offered to buy Malinowski a new $100,000 boat.
News Nation correspondent Brian Entin went to Dan’s boat to check on him. In a video shared on X, which gained 1.3 million views, he shouted, “Lieutenant Dan! Are you OK?” Dan emerged from the boat’s cockpit, appearing unscathed and unbothered despite the fierce winds.
Public reaction to Lieutenant Dan’s resilience
Fans expressed relief at Dan’s safety.
One person said: God Bless him!!! Glad he is safe! And hopefully who offered to buy him a $100k boat follows through!!
A second wrote : That was an epic scene in the Forrest Gump, though, when he challenges the storm.
While a third commented: He’s absolutely fine ATM. Water has gone out and he’s worried what will happen when it floods in again soon
Another added: There is a paralyzed man in my area who blackcoats drives,you can work!
Someone else said: He’s okay the bay emptied and his boat was sitting in sand he live streamed as he waited it out in his boat.
Previously, Dan explained his rationale for staying on the boat. He stated, “The water’s going to come in, it’s going to rise. If you’re on land, it’s going to flood. You’re risking drowning.” He believes that being on a boat is the safest option, as it rises with the water.
Dan also shared that he felt guided by a higher power, saying, “God told me to get a boat. He’s got my back. I’m in good shape. I’m not sweating it.”
Lieutenant Dan’s resilience during Hurricane Milton has resonated with many. His decision to stay on his boat, despite the dangers, highlights his unique perspective. As updates continue to circulate, the public remains invested in his safety and well-being.