Man Refuses to Evacuate Houseboat Ahead of Hurricane Milton, Goes Viral on TikTok

The man known as “Lieutenant Dan” on TikTok has captured the attention of thousands after he went viral for refusing to leave his houseboat ahead of Hurricane Milton. Despite his initial determination to ride out the Category 5 storm, he has since been rescued by the Tampa Police Department and taken to a shelter as the storm nears landfall.

Tampa Mayor Jane Castor commended the efforts of law enforcement in persuading Lieutenant Dan to evacuate, emphasizing the importance of seeking safety in a shelter rather than risking staying in a potentially dangerous situation. With Hurricane Milton projected to bring unprecedented storm surge and flooding to the area, Castor urged residents to take the necessary precautions and heed evacuation orders.

The impending impact of Hurricane Milton is expected to surpass the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene just weeks prior, with storm surge estimates reaching up to 15 feet. Castor emphasized the historical significance of the storm’s potential impact on the community and urged residents to prioritize their safety above all else.

As the region braces for the arrival of Hurricane Milton, the viral video of Lieutenant Dan’s initial refusal to evacuate serves as a stark reminder of the importance of heeding evacuation orders and prioritizing safety in the face of natural disasters.