Alligators invade Florida neighborhoods post-hurricane Milton
In the United States, the assessment of damages continues after Hurricane Milton swept through western Florida. Many people are just now returning to their homes, but it turns out it's still not safe. A new threat has emerged: alligators, which are found even on residential properties.
8:46 AM EDT, October 16, 2024
Last week, the United States was on high alert due to Hurricane Milton, which reached the highest level on the five-step scale as it approached the southern states. In response to the imminent threat, authorities announced evacuations for residents, including those from western Florida.
Although the hurricane was not as strong as predicted, it destroyed over a hundred homes and significantly damaged hundreds more. The full extent of the damage is still unclear, as many people are only now returning to their residences. However, they may encounter some surprises, as was the case for a Stuart resident, Emile De Cuba.
I came home yesterday at around 11:30, and when I went by my sliding door I went 'Woah! - recounted the American in an interview with WPTV.
Alligators take to the streets after Hurricane Milton
His surprise was not due to the scale of destruction, as the hurricane only slightly damaged the house. The reaction was caused by an unexpected guest—an alligator lying at the bottom of the backyard pool. Seeing this, the man immediately called authorities, who removed the reptile and transported it to a safe location.
The American wondered how the animal managed to get onto his property, which was fenced on both sides. As a wildlife inspector later explained to him, the alligator was most likely forced to escape its usual habitat due to flooding and managed to climb the fence to get into his pool.
The incident in Stuart is not isolated. Due to the existing risk of encountering dangerous animals after the hurricane, even before evacuation, the American Wildlife and Fisheries Protection Commission warned of the danger. It urged people not to enter the water immediately after the flood.
