A Clearwater man describes escaping a flooded apartment during Hurricane Milton

CLEARWATER, Fla – Hurricane Milton caused severe flooding in many parts of the Tampa Bay area, including Clearwater, where a man began experiencing water pouring into his apartment while his family was inside, according to FOX 13 News.

Ed Parrado, who lives in a ground floor apartment at the Standard Apartment Complex, experienced this flooding firsthand when water began pouring into the apartment.

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“The water rose very quickly and rapidly,” Parrado said. “It was about waist height and I’m about 6 feet tall.”

The standard apartment complex was in evacuation zone D and was not considered subject to evacuation. Parrado attempted to call 911 but was told they could not help because they were still in a stage six rescue operation.

“Luckily there were some units upstairs. I was able to accommodate my family,” Parrado said.

Parrado isn't the only one dealing with flood damage in his community. He describes a complete destruction of the apartments on the first floor and the vehicles in the parking lot.

“As far as I can tell, all the first floors are gone,” Parrado said. “I’m looking out the window now; Cars are completely submerged in water.”

Clearwater residents and government agencies will begin assessing damage caused by Hurricane Milton. Recovery efforts are expected to begin Thursday.

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