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The Best Local Online Counseling in Cape Coral, FL
If there's one universal truth about humans, it's that at some point in our lives, we have to work through difficult circumstances. When that happens, we often need someone to talk to - someone we can trust who can give us an unbiased opinion or advice. Sometimes, that person is a family member or close friend. In some situations, however, only a qualified professional like a therapist will work. If that sounds familiar, don't be ashamed because you're most certainly not alone. According to recent statistics, in the U.S., approximately 55.8 million adults needed treatment or counseling for mental health reasons in 2022.
If you've been thinking about mental health treatment, you may be considering virtual therapy with an online counselor. Online therapy gives you the chance to connect with licensed therapists and mental health coaches without needing to set foot in a traditional therapy setting. Working with an online therapist can be every bit as effective as seeing an in-person therapist. From anxiety disorders to stress management, virtual therapy provides help for mental health concerns without the need to sit for long periods in a therapist's waiting room. If you're in search of counseling online in Cape Coral, FL, ZenZone Health is among the best choices available.
Online Counseling Services
- The Best Local Online Counseling in Cape Coral, FL
- ZenZone Health: Online Counseling When You Need It Most
- Booking an Online Therapy Session is Easy at ZenZone Health
- Exploring the Many Benefits of Online Counseling in Cape Coral, FL
- When is the Best Time to Seek Counseling Online in Cape Coral, FL?
- Nurturing Your Mental Health One Session at a Time
counseling for ASHLEY WEBBER
depression therapy for Reid Melvin
mental health therapy for Tammy Heil
anxiety therapy for Sheila Black
counseling for Mike McIntyre
depression therapy for Austin Riley
ZenZone Health: Online CounselingWhen You Need It Most
At ZenZone Health, our team of licensed therapists and mental health coaches are committed to delivering reliable and collaborative mental health care to those who need it most. With extensive experience in our field, we recognize the significance of customized, compassionate treatment for mental health. That's why we approach treatment in a comprehensive manner, taking into account each client's specific needs and wellness goals. Our virtual therapists use evidence-based methods to help clients develop resilience and build coping skills that they can use every day.
We know that reaching out for help when you have mental health challenges can be tough, which is why we always offer a welcoming, non-judgmental atmosphere for our clients. We emphatically believe that everyone should have access to quality mental health care and work hard to ensure that our services are easy to understand and affordable for all.
Our telehealth therapists in Cape Coral, FL, focus on a range of specialties, including:
- Depression Therapy
- Anxiety Therapy
- Stress Management
- First Break Psychosis
- Mood Disorders & Bipolar
- Panic Attacks & Panic Disorders
- Family Counseling
- Couples Counseling
- Grief & Loss
- PTSD
- Substance Use Disorder
- Business Consulting
- Wellness Coaching
Booking an Online Therapy Session is Easy at ZenZone Health
Some online counseling websites make booking a session convoluted and confusing. We strive to make the process streamlined and simple. We're also committed to matching you with quality therapists. In fact, the president of ZenZone Health conducts a free 15-minute assessment for every one of our new patients. By relying on a trained, licensed professionals, instead of an algorithm, we can pair you with a counselor who has experience best suited to your needs.
Here's how to Request Information:
Schedule Your Initial Appointment
Fill out the appointment request form on our website or call our office today to discuss how to Request Information with counseling online.
Ongoing Therapy
Once we have completed your initial appointment, you're in the Zone. At this point, you continue to make progress in your virtual coaching or therapy sessions.
Package Savings Program
We want to maintain and build on the progress you're making at ZenZone Health, which is why we created our wellness program, which helps make sure you're in the Zone you want and deserve to be in. This program is dedicated finding the right package for you, to schedule continual sessions 1x per week, 2x per month, what ever is right for you and the price point suited for you.
Insurance
Navigating insurance for online counseling can be a headache, but we go out of our way to make it as easy as possible for you by working with many insurance companies and plans. In some instances, and depending on licensure, we can take your insurance. Please call or message us for more details.
FAQs About Online Counseling and Therapy from ZenZone Health
Therapy will be different for each person, depending on their issues and goals. Typically, sessions involve discussing current events, personal history, and progress from previous sessions. Therapy can be short-term or longer-term, and it's common to have regular weekly sessions. Active participation is important for results, and your therapist may suggest activities outside of sessions to support your progress. Therapy is for those ready to make positive changes, open to new perspectives, and willing to take responsibility for their lives.
Therapy can help with mental and emotional problems better than medication alone. Therapy does more than just treat symptoms; it also addresses the causes of distress and the behavior patterns that limit progress. An integrated approach to wellness is best for long-term growth and well-being. Your doctor can help you decide whether medication, therapy, or both are the right choice for you.
Everyone experiences difficult times in life, and while you may have effectively dealt with other challenges you've encountered, there's no shame in reaching out for extra assistance when you require it. Seeking therapy is actually a sign of self-awareness and strength, as it indicates that you recognize the need for support. By seeking therapy, you are demonstrating accountability for your current circumstances and showing a commitment to making a change. Therapy offers enduring advantages and guidance, equipping you with the necessary skills to avoid potential triggers, redirect harmful behaviors, and conquer any obstacles that come your way.
Now that you know more about what makes ZenZone Health different, let's dig deeper into the benefits of telehealth therapy sessions and who benefits the most from them.
Anxiety, Stress, and Depression: How ZenZone Telehealth Therapists in Cape Coral, FL Help
In today's fast-paced world, mental health disorders are increasingly common and impacting millions of lives worldwide. In the Southeast United States, the prevalence of these disorders has led to the development of specialized treatments and therapies. In this pursuit, ZenZone Health has emerged as a beacon of hope, offering exceptional services in depression therapy, anxiety therapy, and stress management.
A Personalized Approach to Mental Health
What sets ZenZone Health apart from other remote therapists is our personalized approach to therapy. We understand that every person who needs therapy has unique needs and goals. That's why we develop customized treatment plans that address those needs and goals in a structured, compassionate manner. By providing you with a custom treatment plan, we can help ensure that you get the highest quality, most effective interventions possible, leading to positive outcomes and enhanced quality of life.
Depression Therapy from ZenZone Health
Struggling with depression can feel like an ongoing battle, overshadowing everyday life. At ZenZone Health, our depression therapy brings a glimmer of hope to those facing this challenging condition. Our licensed therapists use proven techniques to create a supportive environment where individuals can explore their feelings and build effective coping strategies. By combining psychotherapy and counseling, patients are gently guided toward healing and self-discovery.
Stress and Anxiety Therapy at ZenZone Health
Chronic stress has become a widespread concern in today's modern society, impacting individuals of all age groups. ZenZone Health offers stress management programs that provide practical tools to effectively deal with life's pressures. Our experienced therapists empower clients with relaxation techniques and time management strategies to help achieve balance amidst the chaos.
Anxiety can feel overwhelming, making even simple tasks seem like huge challenges. At ZenZone Health, our anxiety therapy is customized to tackle the underlying issues that your brain won't let go of. Our therapists work closely with you, using cognitive-behavioral techniques and mindfulness practices to help you handle anxious thoughts and behaviors. Through personalized sessions, you can learn to take back control and live a more peaceful and balanced life.
Trauma & PTSD Therapy at ZenZone Health
At ZenZone Health, we understand that the aftermath of trauma can be debilitating, affecting every aspect of your life. Our specialized PTSD and trauma therapy programs are designed to help you regain control and find peace. Using evidence-based techniques, our compassionate therapists work with you to process traumatic experiences and develop coping strategies. Whether through cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, or mindfulness practices, we provide a safe and supportive environment for healing. At ZenZone Health, we are dedicated to helping you move forward, reclaim your life, and achieve lasting well-being.
Exploring the Many Benefits of Online Counseling in Cape Coral, FL
Studies indicate that therapy is generally effective and offers numerous advantages. Therapy can help you recognize sources of distress, gain better self-understanding, and reach your goals. While traditional in-person counseling is an option for many, it's not for everyone. Here are some of the biggest benefits of online therapy:
Access to Support When Living in Remote Areas
Online therapy provides mental health support to individuals living in rural or remote areas who may not have access to traditional in-person therapy due to a lack of local mental health services. Seeking face-to-face therapy in such cases often involves long drives and significant time commitments, which can be challenging for those with busy schedules. However, with reliable internet access, telehealth therapy sessions offer a convenient and relatively quick way to access treatment that might otherwise be difficult to obtain.
Affordable and Convenient
While this wasn't always the case, modern counseling online is usually quite affordable and convenient. You can schedule therapy sessions from the comfort of your own home at times that suit you best. Plus, many states now mandate that insurance providers cover online therapy just like traditional therapy (you should contact your insurance company to see if telehealth counseling is covered). Add that to the fact that telehealth is generally affordable even without insurance coverage, and you can see why so many people check in with their counselors on a weekly and even daily basis.
Access to Counseling if You're Physically Disabled
When you're disabled physically, everyday tasks like getting dressed and running errands can be extremely frustrating. Unfortunately, disabled men and women often forego therapy because they can't make it to the therapist's office. Online therapy offers a way for people with disabilities or limited mobility to access mental health care. A therapist working from home may not have the facilities to cater to clients with different needs, but with online counseling, you can still access quality care.
Better Availability
Telehealth therapy sessions in Cape Coral, FL offer an easier way for people to connect with a counselor, especially for those who need help but might be deterred by various obstacles. Individuals struggling with mental health issues like social anxiety disorder, depression, mood disorders, or post-traumatic stress disorder may find it difficult to motivate themselves to seek out a therapist, book appointments, and travel to their office for the initial and subsequent meetings.
If booking an appointment with a traditional therapist isn't in the cards, it could be time to try counseling online.
Therapy is More Approachable
The internet has made mental health treatment more accessible. People might find it easier to discuss physical health problems with friends and family than mental health concerns. However, online access can help overcome the stigma associated with mental health issues. Teletherapy can also be a valuable tool for learning more about mental health and strengthening your psychological well-being, even if you're not struggling with mental health issues.
A Note from ZenZone Health: If you or a loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts, contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 on your phone. You can contact this number 24/7, day or night.
Call 866-614-7967When is the Best Time to Seek Counseling Online in Cape Coral, FL?
If you're reading this, chances are you or a loved one is struggling in life. You may be dealing with added stress at work, grieving after a traumatic life event, or working through a rocky relationship. Dealing with these issues alone can be challenging. But asking for help can be, too. That's especially true when you're dealing with mental health issues. Fortunately, a licensed therapist may be able to provide the support and tools you need to get back to a normal life. If you're wondering whether you need online counseling, keep these situations in mind.
Living with Substance Abuse Problems
Dealing with addictions, whether it's substance abuse or behavioral addictions like gambling, can feel incredibly daunting. Therapy is an essential part of the recovery process as it delves into the underlying causes of these issues. With help from remote therapists, you develop skills to help maintain sobriety and prevent relapses. For example, if you're struggling with alcohol addiction, an online therapist can help you identify triggers and teach you new, healthier ways to cope with those triggers instead of using alcohol.
Dealing with Relationship Issues
Relationship struggles can be a huge motivating factor for seeking therapy. These issues may involve friends, romantic partners, or family members. For instance, a couple may turn to couples counseling to address communication or trust issues. An online counselor can assist individuals in resolving these issues and developing improved communication skills, boundaries, and coping strategies.
Symptoms of a Mental Health Condition
Conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, and PTSD can significantly disrupt daily life. Symptoms can manifest as constant feelings of worry or frequent headaches. Therapy, along with medication or lifestyle adjustments, can be an effective treatment for mental health. For example, a person with anxiety might learn relaxation techniques to manage stress levels with the help of a therapist. Similarly, someone experiencing depression may learn coping skills to maintain a more positive outlook on life.
New Challenges in Life
Dealing with common - albeit challenging - events in life, like losing a job, coping with grief, or undergoing major changes, can be very disruptive. If you find yourself losing interest in your usual activities, it could be a sign of a mental health condition like major depressive disorder. Therapy offers essential support and guidance for managing these issues, which can help individuals overcome their obstacles. For instance, a person grieving the loss of a loved one may benefit from online counseling as they navigate through their emotions. Similarly, someone who has relocated to a new city might find online therapy beneficial as they adapt to their new home, community, and workplace.
Trauma from Childhood
Childhood trauma can have a lasting impact on people as they mature. Virtual therapy with a licensed professional can assist people in processing these experiences and recovering from them, which may help them comprehend and address any existing issues. For instance, individuals who experienced neglect as children can work through feelings of abandonment in therapy, potentially alleviating the anxiety they may be feeling in their romantic relationship.
Nurturing Your Mental Health One Session at a Time
In the pursuit of mental wellness, ZenZone Health stands as your steadfast ally, offering specialized therapies that cater to a range of mental health and lifestyle challenges. Through our expertise in depression therapy, anxiety therapy, and stress management, we aren't just providing treatments; we're offering a lifeline to those struggling with mental health disorders. When you trust ZenZone Health for online therapy in Cape Coral, FL, you're taking the first step toward rediscovering joy in your life, one session at a time. Contact us today to learn more about telehealth therapy and how our providers can help you overcome the hurdles holding you back.
Latest News in Cape Coral, FL
'When is my power coming back on?': LCEC restoration could take 1-2 weeks in some areas after Hurricane Milton
Kaitlin Knapphttps://www.fox4now.com/cape-coral/when-is-my-power-coming-back-on-lcec-restoration-could-take-1-2-weeks-in-some-areas-after-hurricane-milton
Posted CAPE CORAL, Fla. — This question is probably at the top of mind for a lot of people after Hurricane Milton: when is my power coming back on?Fox 4 Senior Reporter Kaitlin Knapp sat down with LCEC's Incident Commander to talk about restoration efforts:The sound of generators echo through neighborhoods across southwest Florida. Dave Collins lives in southwest Cape Coral and has no power."I came from Cape Cod Massachusetts," he said. "We have hurricanes, NorEasters, snow stor...
Posted
CAPE CORAL, Fla. — This question is probably at the top of mind for a lot of people after Hurricane Milton: when is my power coming back on?
Fox 4 Senior Reporter Kaitlin Knapp sat down with LCEC's Incident Commander to talk about restoration efforts:
The sound of generators echo through neighborhoods across southwest Florida. Dave Collins lives in southwest Cape Coral and has no power.
"I came from Cape Cod Massachusetts," he said. "We have hurricanes, NorEasters, snow storms. It's not like this is new."
Power went out for him around 10:00 Wednesday night. He believes a pole across the street is the cause.
"They're aware of that particular pole right there," Collins said.
They even came out to assess it when Fox 4 was there.
It's a sight across southwest Florida, like on Burnt Store Road. Poles are leaning or snapped.
LCEC says some of the areas hit the hardest include the barrier islands and west Cape Coral.
"Progress is being made," said LCEC Incident Commander Allan Ruth.
He says two substations got hit. They quickly got Corbett Road to the Kismet Parkway substation connected. Pine Island over to Sanibel is under restoration. Ruth says the source power did well.
The main issues: downed lines and broken poles. He says only about 20 broke, but none of the main feeder poles broke.
"We're actually days ahead of where we were at with Hurricane Ian at this point," Ruth said.
Knapp talked to Ruth about a year after Ian — asking him what LCEC learned and what will be done differently for the next storm, like communication.
RELATED COVERAGE: Hurricane Ian forces LCEC to make changes to restoration plan
"That's definitely something that we have improved upon," he said.
LCEC now has more outreach booths to meet with customers that have comments or concerns.
New this year: a base camp for the almost 1,800 linemen at the Civic Center.
"They don't have to shuffle them back and forth," Ruth said. "It just builds in the efficiencies of restoration."
As of Friday afternoon, LCEC says about 30% of customers have no power. Thursday night it was 52%.
Rather than looking at the outage map, LCEC says to check the "customers summary." It will tell you how many customers in specific areas do and don't have power.
"We're in the process of now putting together our restoration time," Ruth said.
He says historically with a Category 3, it would be a 3-week restoration event. However, that's not the case here because of more efficient methods and technology.
"It could still take a week or even beyond that for more severe damaged areas, into the two-week range in this event," Ruth explained.
The barrier islands could take longer because of the extent of the damage, plus the salt on the equipment.
In areas like where Collins lives, Ruth doesn't anticipate it being too long.
"We have to understand there is nothing we can do," he said. "They're working as hard as they can."
For an update on your restoration, click here.
Copyright 2024 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Hurricane Milton's winds topple power poles and spark house fire in Cape Coral
Madison Adamshttps://www.nbc-2.com/article/hurricane-milton-house-fire-cape-coral-florida/62573982
CAPE CORAL, Fla. —Hurricane Milton’s powerful winds brought devastation to Cape Coral, knocking down several power poles along Chiquita Boulevard and sparking a fire that destroyed a family’s home.Seven people lived in the home at 107 Chiquita Boulevard, but only one, Lester Roque, stayed behind during the hurricane.Lester described the terrifying moment he realized his home was on fire. After hearing an explosion and the sound of honking cars outside, he opened the front door only to s...
CAPE CORAL, Fla. —
Hurricane Milton’s powerful winds brought devastation to Cape Coral, knocking down several power poles along Chiquita Boulevard and sparking a fire that destroyed a family’s home.
Seven people lived in the home at 107 Chiquita Boulevard, but only one, Lester Roque, stayed behind during the hurricane.
Lester described the terrifying moment he realized his home was on fire. After hearing an explosion and the sound of honking cars outside, he opened the front door only to see flames. Power lines were down, blocking the entrance, but Lester managed to crawl under them to escape safely.
Elena Gonzalez, Lester’s wife, returned to see her home for the first time after evacuating for Milton. Tears streamed down her face as she shared the painful reality of their loss.
“We never thought this was going to happen,” Elena said, still in disbelief. “We have nothing. Absolutely nothing.”
This home was their dream, purchased just last year after years of hard work and sacrifice.
“Everything we worked so hard for, all that we saved, has turned to ashes,” she said, sobbing.
The once-cozy home is now unrecognizable, with cars, furniture, toys, and cherished memories all lost in the blaze. The fire was sparked when Hurricane Milton’s winds knocked down power lines like dominoes, spreading across multiple homes on Chiquita Boulevard. An open current ignited the flames that destroyed Elena and Lester’s home.
Just a few houses down, Bethany Sierocinski and her neighbors remain trapped inside their homes without electricity. Downed power lines, some of which may still be live, surround their properties.
Sierocinski shared their fear of the power being restored too soon, which could potentially spark more fires.
“We contacted LCEC and asked them to please not turn the power back on until it’s safe,” she said.
Even though Hurricane Milton has passed, Bethany’s family isn’t getting much sleep.
“We’re just hoping everything works out, and they come tomorrow to get the lines off the cars. It’d be great if we could just get out,” she said.
Like her neighbors, Sierocinski fears her home could catch fire next.
“If you see downed power lines, please don’t drive over them — you don’t know what that could do to someone’s home," Sierocinski said.
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Hurricane Milton live updates: Impact reports on Lee County, beaches and inland
Kim Lucianihttps://www.news-press.com/story/news/2024/10/10/hurricane-milton-lee-county-live-updates-impact-landfall-damage/75587589007/
Hurricane Milton made landfall near Siesta Key in Sarasota County around 8:30 p.m. Wednesday as a Category 3 storm. The powerful hurricane wrought havoc...
Hurricane Milton made landfall near Siesta Key in Sarasota County around 8:30 p.m. Wednesday as a Category 3 storm. The powerful hurricane wrought havoc across Lee County, with devastating storm surge, flooding and winds.
➤ Weather alerts via text: Sign up to get updates about current storms and weather events by location
Conditions across Lee County quickly deteriorated, leaving nearly 180,000 without power and communities inundated with water, just two weeks after Hurricane Helene brought 2-4 feet of storm surge to the area.
By 6 p.m. Wednesday, 55 tornado warnings had been issued across Southwest Florida and at least one tornado tore through North Fort Myers, Cape Coral and Lee County, causing extensive damage.
Our team of journalists, reporters, photographers, videographers and editors are providing urgent updates to help residents of the region prepare for the storm. Mandatory evacuations have been ordered in coastal communities like Fort Myers Beach, Marco Island and Sanibel Island. Shelters are open in Lee and Collier counties.
Lee County watches and warning in effect
As of 11 p.m., a storm surge warning is in effect for Cape Coral, Captiva and Sanibel.
Lee County remains under a hurricane warning and a flood watch is in effect until Thursday evening.
There is a potential for 8-12 feet of inundation above ground somewhere within surge prone areas.
Winds in Lee County were at 45-55 mph with gusts to 70 mph and the window for tropical-storm-force winds remains until Thursday evening.
Lee County, Florida power outage map
Live radar: Hurricane Milton
Helpful links for Hurricane Milton
WEATHER: Go HERE for Lee County weather watches, warnings and advisories.
POWER OUTAGES: LCEC power map is HERE
POWER OUTAGES: FPL's tracker is HERE
Hurricane Milton headlines from Wednesday as storm arrived
Here is a link to the live blog that was being fed on Oct. 9 when Hurricane Milton's impacts started being felt in Lee County.
More coverage
Photos: Fort Myers Beach resembles 'ghost town'
What's open in Southwest Florida following Hurricane Milton?
Zach Scotthttps://www.nbc-2.com/article/hurricane-milton-florida-grocery-store-hours-open-closed/62563465
FORT MYERS, Fla. —As Southwest Florida starts trying to return to normal following Hurricane Milton, many are left wondering - what's open?Below is a list of businesses reported open and closed:Find your Publix store here.Find your local Walmart ...
FORT MYERS, Fla. —
As Southwest Florida starts trying to return to normal following Hurricane Milton, many are left wondering - what's open?
Below is a list of businesses reported open and closed:
Find your Publix store here.
Find your local Walmart here.
FK Your Diet - Fort Myers
"We have power at the restaurant not at our homes. Today we're offering free food as long as we can. If you can leave a donation great if not we got you. Love you all."
Publix
Publix stores across Southwest Florida are set to reopen stores at 12 p.m. on Thursday.
Costco
Costco's in SWFL are set to open at 10 a.m. on Thursday
Sam's Club
Naples: Open on Thursday at 10 a.m.
Lee and Charlotte counties: Open Friday at 10 a.m.
Daybreak Market
1465 SW 4th St, Cape Coral, FL
Lowe's Home Improvement
8 a.m. - 10070 Estero Town Commons Place, Estero
10 a.m. - Other SWFL locations
The Bagel Factory of Fort Myers
8841 College Parkway Fort Myers FL
Open at 8:30 a.m.
Wonderland Cookie Dough & Ice Cream
Statement: We made it! I know a lot of you are still without power but hope you see this. We are going to open today and give out free scoops. Bring the family, come hang out in the AC, we have Wi-Fi, come say hello…1 FREE SCOOP today Please “Share”5781 Bayshore Rd #108N Fort Myers, Fl 339171:00-8:00pm today (Thursday).
Zaxby's
All 3 Lee County locations will be open on Thursday at 10:45 a.m.
McDonald's
2955 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers
1805 Tamiami Trl, Port Charlotte
Culver's
12651 S Cleveland Ave, Fort Myers
Farmer Joe's
1401 SW Pine Island Rd, Cape Coral
Season 52 - Naples (evening service)
8930 Tamiami Trail N, Naples
Yummy Yummy
3015 SW Pine Island Rd #108, Cape Coral
Wawa
4787 Radio Rd, Naples, FL
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Hurricane Milton leaves destruction across storm-weary Florida: Live updates
John Baconhttps://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2024/10/10/hurricane-milton-live-updates-florida-aftermath-thursday/75599239007/
TAMPA, Fla. − Hurricane Milton howled across the Florida Panhandle on Thursday, tearing a path of destruction from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic as it flooded neighborhoods, destroyed homes, tore the roof off a major sports venue and toppled a massive crane into an office building.In downtown Tampa early Thursday, fierc...
TAMPA, Fla. − Hurricane Milton howled across the Florida Panhandle on Thursday, tearing a path of destruction from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic as it flooded neighborhoods, destroyed homes, tore the roof off a major sports venue and toppled a massive crane into an office building.
In downtown Tampa early Thursday, fierce winds tore down traffic lights, ripped signs out of the ground, and sent construction barricades scudding across the wet pavement. Milton’s winds also ripped off plywood meant to keep the storm out, and a portion of a downtown building’s brick facade collapsed onto N. Florida Avenue, partially blocking the road.
Milton made landfall late Wednesday on the state's western coast as a Category 3 hurricane amid a flurry of tornadoes it spawned. The system was exiting the state early Thursday near Cape Canaveral, still at Category 1 hurricane strength driving winds of 85 mph, the National Hurricane Center said in its 5 a.m. update.
At least two deaths were reported at a retirement community following a suspected tornado in Fort Pierce on the state's east coast, NBC News reported, citing St. Lucie County Sheriff Keith Pearson. More than 3 million homes and businesses were in the dark by early Thursday, according to USA TODAY power outage data.
A flash flood emergency was in effect for Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater, the hurricane center said, after parts of the area were blasted with more than 16 inches of rain Wednesday.
The eye of the storm made landfall in Siesta Key, a barrier island off Sarasota about 60 miles south of the Tampa. Milton's powerful assault comes two weeks after Hurricane Helene slammed into the Florida coast on its way to devastating communities across seven states.
Developments
∎ Oil prices rose Thursday on a spike in fuel demand, the impact of Milton in Florida and concerns about potential supply disruptions in the Middle East amid heightened tensions between Israel and major oil producer Iran. The storm has already driven up demand for gasoline in the state, with about a quarter of fuel stations selling out of supplies, which has helped to support crude prices.
∎ Taylor Swift has donated $5 million to hurricane relief efforts for victims of Helene and Milton, the non-profit organization Feeding America announced.
Crane collapsed into Tampa Bay Times' office building
Officials reported late Wednesday that a crane collapsed near a building construction site in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida. According to the Tampa Bay Times, the crane left a gaping hole in an office building that houses several businesses, including the newspaper. No injuries were immediately reported.
“The public is urged to continue to shelter in place” but avoid the area, the city of St. Petersburg said in a statement.
"We can confirm one crane cab in the upper section of the mast has fallen," said John Catsimatidis, the CEO of Red Apple Group, which is developing the skyscraper the Times reported. "We are working with city officials and others to assess the situation."
MLB stadium Tropicana Field damaged
Milton battered the Tampa Bay area with high winds and heavy rains after making landfall late Wednesday. St. Petersburg, Florida, officials confirmed that destructive winds damaged the roof at Tropicana Field, home of Major League Baseball's Tampa Bay Rays. The ballpark was repurposed as a base camp for thousands of emergency responders as Florida braced for Milton. Footage from local television stations and photos shared on social media showed part of the stadium’s roof torn off amid high winds.
The domed stadium has been home to the Tampa Bay Rays since the team's inaugural season in 1998, though plans are in the works to replace it by 2028. It's among the smallest MLB stadiums by seating capacity, but Tropicana Field features a slanted roof designed at an angle in part to better protect it from hurricanes.
− Thao Nguyen, Eric Lagatta
Tornadoes rip through southwest Florida
Reported tornadoes tore through parts of southwest Florida on Wednesday, including in Collier County and Lee County, causing extensive damage across Fort Myers and Cape Coral.
North Fort Myers resident Scott Fincher was sitting on the lanai of his Pine Lakes community home with his family, waiting for Milton. As they waited, they passed the time watching the local news, which was reporting on the "tornado outbreak.”
Reporters then announced a tornado was headed into sister community Lake Fairways, which shares a boundary with Pine Lakes. That’s when Fincher knew: they had to hide.
Fincher immediately began moving everyone into the home: his wife, his sister-in-law and his dog. “Just as we were moving everybody in, that’s when it came through,” Fincher said, “and when I heard the rumbling.”
“It was a wall of black,” Fincher said. “It was just as black as could be . . . I felt fear. You could feel the ground shaking a little bit, the house and everything.”
− Kate Cimini, Fort Myers News-Press
Analysts: Hurricane Milton could cost insurers up to $100 billion
Hurricane Milton could result in losses of up to $100 billion for the global insurance industry, creating a surge in 2025 reinsurance prices that could boost some insurance companies' shares, analysts said Wednesday.
Milton, which slammed into Florida's already storm-blasted west coast Wednesday night, spawned at least 19 tornadoes and caused damage in numerous counties, destroying around 125 homes, most of them mobile homes, according to Gov. Ron DeSantis.
"At this point, it's too dangerous to evacuate safely, so you have to shelter in place and just hunker down," DeSantis said upon announcing the landfall.
Insured losses from Milton could range from $60 billion to $100 billion if the hurricane makes direct landfall in the densely populated area of Tampa, analysts at Morningstar DBRS said. A loss of $100 billion would put Milton on par with Katrina in 2005, they added, adding that insured losses would likely be "substantial but not catastrophic."
Contributing: Reuters
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