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Siesta Key is open for the first time since Hurricane Milton

Siesta Key is open for the first time since Hurricane Milton

On the barrier islands, the recovery begins in Milton

Siesta Key, where Hurricane Milton made landfall Wednesday evening, reopened Friday morning for residents and business owners to get their first look at the storm’s aftermath.

SIESTA KEY, Fla – Siesta Key officially reopened Friday, allowing residents and business owners to return to Sarasota County’s barrier island where Hurricane Milton made landfall.

The storm hit Florida’s Gulf Coast on Wednesday evening as a major Category 3 hurricane, and offshore islands had to be evacuated ahead of Milton’s arrival.

As of Friday morning, the island remains closed to visitors, while other barrier islands – including Lido Key, Casey Key and Manasota Key – are still completely closed.

Siesta Key reopened Friday morning for the first time since Hurricane Milton made landfall.

County officials say they will begin assessing damage along beaches and to buildings and other facilities in beach parks on Friday.

Many across the county are still without power as crews work to restore service to the hardest-hit areas.

Click here for the latest storm recovery updates from Sarasota County Government.

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