In photos: Hurricane Milton’s impact on Polk County

In the aftermath of Milton, the power is out for tens of thousands, trees are down, and lakes + canals are overflowing. Take a closer look at the storm’s impact on Lakeland and Polk County.

October 11, 2024 •

Amelia Grooms

Facebook
Twitter
Nextdoor
Email
Copy
Link copied

Submit your photos here

You can also tag us on Instagram (@thelaltoday)

Facebook
Twitter
Nextdoor
Email
Copy
Link copied

More from LALtoday

The exterior of Sora Eatery in Lakeland International Airport.

Food

Sora Eatery is now boarding at Lakeland International Airport

The new restaurant at LAL is nearly ready to open its doors, and we got a sneak peek of what Lakelanders (and visitors) can expect.

March 2, 2026

Amelia Grooms

Nextdoor names Lakeland’s friendliest neighborhoods of 2026

Did your neighborhood make the list?

February 26, 2026

Connor Jacobson

An aerial view of the Florida Strawberry Festival's rides, booths, and entertainment pavilions

Events

Your guide to the 2026 Florida Strawberry Festival

It’s the sweetest time of year — the Florida Strawberry Festival is back. Save our guide so you don’t get in a (strawberry) jam.

February 26, 2026

Staff

Entrance to Munn Park with trees, benches, and signage

Events

Plan Ahead: Don’t miss these events happening in Lakeland

Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.

February 25, 2026

Staff

A 70-ft mural with a colorful, technological design

Travel and Outdoors

Barbecue, beer, and brushstrokes: Explore Polk with Visit Central Florida’s passes

Be a tourist in your own hometown with three passes that give you prizes in return for check-ins.

February 24, 2026

Connor Jacobson

A line of people outside a green building with a pink neon "Grievous Angel" sign and outdoor picnic table seating.

Food

What we ordered at Grievous Angel, downtown Lakeland’s new burger joint

Burgers, beignets, and beverages — find out what’s on the menu at this new restaurant from the owners of LoveBird.

February 23, 2026

Connor Jacobson

An architectural rendering of a modern library interior with vaulted ceilings, globe lights, and computer workstations.

City

Larry R. Jackson Branch Library to undergo major renovations

The library will fully close for the construction of new bathrooms, an updated layout, and new fixtures.

February 19, 2026

Connor Jacobson

A pilot's view from the cockpit of a small aircraft flying over the Florida landscape under a clear blue sky.

Business

Learn to soar with Dobbs Flight Service in Lakeland

Lakeland’s aviation industry is reaching new heights. Become part of it by earning your pilot’s license with this flight school, located at Lakeland International Airport.

February 19, 2026

Connor Jacobson

A small orange camper filled with plants, with succulents outside

Business

Local love: LALtoday’s guide to reader-recommended small businesses

Put your money where your community is and help us create a guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local spots and sharing this page with a friend.

February 18, 2026

Laura Figi

Sports

Our guide to Detroit Tigers’ Spring Training in Lakeland

The 90th season of this beloved Lakeland tradition is underway at Joker Marchant Stadium — here’s everything you need to know if you’re planning to attend.

February 17, 2026

Staff