On social media, many viewers were stunned after a viral video captured the horrific moment of Hurricane Milton damaging Tropicana Field.
Security footage shared on Twitter revealed the devastation caused by Hurricane Milton, leaving viewers in a state of panic.
Hurricane Milton’s Impact on Tampa Bay
Hurricane Milton struck Florida on October 9, bringing significant destruction to the Tampa Bay area. The storm, classified as a category three hurricane, had a devastating effect on Tropicana Field, a stadium intended to shelter first responders.
The stadium was ripped off during Hurricane Milton
Tropicana Field was set to accommodate 10,000 first responders during Hurricane Milton. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced earlier that the stadium would serve as a base camp. Unfortunately, the storm’s intensity led to severe damage, tearing off the stadium’s roof.
Footage captured the damage inside the stadium
While, security footage from inside Tropicana Field revealed the extent of the devastation.
The video, shared by the owner of the security firm, shows the roof shredded and debris scattered everywhere. Concerned viewers took to social media to express their worries.
Storm chaser Jonathan Petramala witnessed the storm firsthand. He described the scene to CNN, stating that the destruction was “one of the most surreal things ever.”
Hurricane Milton reached wind speeds of 120 mph upon landfall. Additionally, Some experts have suggested the need for a category six on the Saffir-Simpson scale due to the storm’s intensity.
The video quicky went viral and sparked concerned
In the comment selection, many viewer express their shock after witnessing the moment of the stadium intended to shelter 10,000 people as roof gets ripped off during Hurricane Milton.
One peron said: Stadiums always get torn up in these storms. I’m confused they thought that stadium which is so surrounded by water would be a safe place. They don’t make the roofs strong enough for how big they are.
A second wrote: I want to know where all the workers are staying now and are they all ok. Prayers for them.
While a third commented: Yet their governor is removing all traces of “climate change” from their textbooks and legislation…
Someone else said: $1.3b ya someone is trying to get extra no way for a roof it would cost that much they act like all the seats were taken out.
Stadium’s structural resilience tested
Tropicana Field boasts the world’s largest cable-supported dome roof, designed to withstand winds up to 115 mph. However, the storm’s winds exceeded that threshold.
According to reports, Hurricane Milton’s gusts reached as high as 180 mph, raising concerns about structural integrity.
FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell provided updates on the situation. Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today program, she cautioned, “The wind, even though it’s decreasing, the threats are not decreasing.” She urged residents to remain indoors due to the ongoing risk of flash flooding.
As of now, no injuries have been reported from the stadium’s roof collapse.
While, a spokesperson for the city has advised residents to avoid downtown St. Petersburg. The aftermath of Hurricane Milton continues to unfold, with safety remaining a top priority.