Damages to the agricultural sector in Florida from Hurricane Milton could exceed the combined impact of three preceding storms, as per the state's Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Commissioner Wilton Simpson has reported estimated losses between $1.5 billion and $2.5 billion from Milton alone, adding to the $1.5 billion damage from hurricanes Idalia, Debby, and Helene since August 2023. Simpson has reached out to the U.S. Department of Agriculture seeking federal support for the affected farming communities.
Hurricane Milton, making landfall in Sarasota County, has affected 51 counties with 120 mph winds, following a series of climatic challenges including above-average rainfall and severe storms. The agriculture department's preliminary report highlights extensive damage to nurseries, cattle ranches, and disruptions to dairy operations. Crop damage ranges from minor to catastrophic across cotton, peanuts, rice, vegetables, melons, blueberries, strawberries, and tropical fruits. The citrus sector, already facing low production, now contends with fruit drop and potential tree mortality due to flooded fields.
Alico Inc., a prominent citrus grower, reported minimal tree damage but acknowledged fruit loss across its groves in several counties. The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) has provided preliminary estimates of damage from earlier storms, with Debby and Idalia causing significant agricultural losses. UF/IFAS is currently assessing the impact of both Helene and Milton on the state's agriculture, amidst ongoing recovery efforts from 2022's Hurricane Ian.
Source: WCTV