The destructive force of Hurricanes Milton and Helene has led to the emergence of sinkholes across various regions in Florida. One such sinkhole appeared in a neighborhood in Lakeland, causing part of a home to collapse. According to NBC 6 South Florida, the sinkhole in Polk County swallowed a section of the house, including part of the garage, and also damaged the lawn.
Beyond the catastrophic loss of life and significant property damage, the recent hurricanes have introduced an added concern for residents and authorities alike. Reports indicate that another sinkhole formed at the intersection of 50th Avenue N, 24th Street North, and Haines Road in the unincorporated area of St. Petersburg last Sunday. This location in Pinellas County had to be closed off, with road maintenance teams advising drivers and pedestrians to find alternative routes.
Widespread Sinkhole Alerts
On Thursday, the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) issued a warning about a massive sinkhole in a neighborhood intersection. The sinkhole opened at Irish Moss Avenue and Pond Pine Drive, effectively trapping residents. Team HCSO urged residents to remain vigilant, as sinkholes can expand without warning, according to a Facebook post by the police. In the comments, local residents shared photos of similar sinkholes that have appeared in their areas.
Authorities have been urging people to stay alert for any damage to their homes. As Hurricane Milton swept through Florida, it left at least 16 people dead, caused extensive flooding, and inflicted widespread destruction on homes and other structures due to its powerful winds and preceding tornadoes on Wednesday, October 9.
Devastating Impact of Hurricane Helene
Helene made landfall on Thursday night, September 26, in northwest Florida as a Category 4 hurricane, with winds reaching 140 mph (225 km/h). The formidable storm impacted six southern states in the U.S., leaving behind widespread devastation and at least 230 fatalities. This makes it one of the deadliest cyclones of the 21st century in the country.
During a visit to Florida on Sunday, President Joe Biden announced federal aid exceeding $600 million to assist the state in recovering from the damages caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.