Written by Sivani Babu, American Red Cross Public Affairs

As Hurricane Milton barreled toward Florida, 82-year-old Joe Summa never expected a different natural disaster would upend his life. Anticipating the needs of those affected, the American Red Cross was already on the scene.

The 82-year-old retired accountant was in his Spanish Lakes Country Club Village home in Fort Pierce when he heard a sound unlike anything he’d ever heard before.

“I just knew it was going to be a tornado,” he said.

The outer rain bands of Hurricane Milton spawned a historic tornado outbreak in Florida, with multiple tornadoes confirmed in St. Lucie and neighboring counties.

In Summa’s community, the impact was extensive. Dozens of homes were damaged or destroyed, some flipped from their foundations, and several fatalities have been reported. For Summa and his daughter, who were both home at the time, it was a close call.

“That wind came up so fast, it just blew the house right away from us. My daughter and I were three feet from death,” he said. “I don’t believe our lives, or my life, will ever be the same.”

After evacuating, Summa moved between shelters for a couple of days before arriving at the Red Cross shelter at First United Methodist Church of Port St. Lucie, where he’s been staying for the last week.

“The Red Cross has just been unbelievable,” he said. “Everyone has been so, so caring and supportive.” 

“I love the Red Cross,” he continued. "I will always love the Red Cross."

To support Hurricane Milton relief efforts and make a financial donation, visit redcross.org or text MILTON to 90999.