Photo of Milton using wire to reinforce house against storm becomes internet phenomenon

Local media outlet Spectrum Bay News 9 on October 9 posted a photo of Tampa, Florida resident Mohammed Nijem stretching large ropes to reinforce his roof before Hurricane Milton made landfall. The photo has since garnered about 2 million views.

In the photo are yellow wires stretched at both ends and plugged into the ground, to reinforce the one-story house.

Residents in Tampa, Florida use wire to reinforce their homes

PHOTO: SPECTRUM BAY NEWS 9

This reinforcement method has received mixed reviews. Some have called it “genius,” while others are skeptical, saying the cables could cause more damage if blown off the ground. Some have pointed out that the straps need to be twisted to prevent vibration.

Social media users hope to see updated images after the storm to compare whether the homeowner's solution worked.

Heavy rain, strong winds as Hurricane Milton hits Florida

Hurricane Milton made landfall in Florida on the evening of October 9 (local time) and is currently a Category 2 storm, with winds of about 168 km/h. Authorities said the storm is still bringing “devastating rains and violent winds.” Flash flood warnings have been issued in Tampa Bay, where rain is expected to last for several more hours, according to CNN.

Storm surges of several centimeters were reported in parts of southwest Florida, particularly where Milton made landfall, including Venice, Fort Myers and Naples, Florida. The storm also left more than 1 million Florida homes without power.

Officials in St. Petersburg, Florida, have cut off drinking water service across the city in response to a water main break. Also in the city, a construction crane collapsed, with no injuries initially reported.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/buc-anh-dung-day-gia-co-nha-chong-bao-milton-tro-thanh-hien-tuong-mang-185241010111449802.htm