Sarah Brady
Updated on: October 17, 2024 8:04 am GMT
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – A construction crane came crashing down in downtown St. Petersburg as Hurricane Milton lashed the area with powerful winds on Wednesday night. The incident, which left visible damage on a nearby office building, added to the chaos caused by the storm, which has already brought heavy rain and flooding to the region.
The crane collapsed around 400 Central Avenue, where the Residences at 400 Central, a 46-story skyscraper currently under construction, is located. Footage captured by witnesses shows the crane crumpled on the street, surrounded by debris, completely blocking First Avenue South. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, as city officials confirmed that the Tampa Bay Times office, which shares the area, was closed when the crane fell.
Storm-Related Warnings
Hurricane Milton, previously classified as a Category 3 storm, made landfall on Siesta Key before being downgraded to a Category 2 hurricane shortly thereafter. Winds reached speeds over 100 miles per hour, raising concerns about the safety of construction cranes throughout St. Petersburg. Mayor Ken Welch expressed worry earlier this week, noting that it typically takes specialized crews about a week to properly secure or remove cranes before a storm.
City officials were in contact with developers managing the cranes but noted that proper precautions must be scheduled in advance. The cranes are typically set to “weathervane mode,” which allows them to rotate with winds up to 100 miles per hour. However, Hurricane Milton’s powerful winds exceeded this capability.
- Hurricane Milton Facts:
- Made landfall on Siesta Key as a Category 3 hurricane
– Downgraded to a Category 2 shortly afterward
– Experienced winds exceeding 100 miles per hour
Community Impact
The crane collapse is just one of several storm-related incidents the region has faced. The National Weather Service reported multiple crane failures in St. Petersburg, a city that is about 50 miles north of the hurricane’s landfall. The storm has brought significant rainfall, contributing to a 1-in-1000 year flood event in the area.
Residents who live near construction sites were urged by Mayor Welch to find safer locations temporarily. Those living close to the affected sites heeded the warning, reducing risks in the harsh weather conditions.
Aftermath and Rebuilding
The crane’s debris has obstructed roadways, prompting city officials to respond quickly to clear the area. The Tampa Bay Times, which occupies the space affected by the crane, is a long-standing business in St. Petersburg, having existed in various forms since its founding. The office building itself comprises three structures built in 1924, 1968, and 1988, all connected together. After selling the building in 2016, the Times continued to operate as a tenant.
- Key Points of Interest:
– The crane was part of a construction project for the tallest building in St. Petersburg.
– The affected office is home to several businesses in addition to the Tampa Bay Times.
– After closing their office due to the storm, no staff were present when the crane collapsed.
As the city begins the recovery process, officials will assess the damage and determine necessary steps for cleanup and repairs. Mayor Welch will likely continue to work with construction companies and safety experts to ensure incidents like this do not occur in the future.
Safety Precautions for Residents
Authorities have emphasized the importance of monitoring weather conditions and adhering to safety measures during dangerous storms. Residents are urged to:
- Stay informed through local news and weather updates.
- Follow evacuation orders if issued by officials.
- Avoid travel during severe weather, especially near construction sites.
Looking Ahead
St. Petersburg will face challenges in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton as recovery efforts begin. The focus remains on restoring normalcy, ensuring the community’s safety, and preparing for subsequent storms. Ongoing improvements to construction safety and storm preparedness will be critical in the rebuilding process.
To learn more about how the hurricane affected things, be sure to watch local news channels and check the National Weather Service. As the cleanup begins, the strong spirit of the St. Petersburg community will help everyone get through this tough time and move forward safely.
