Assessments are still underway in Florida, United States, to ascertain the full impact of Hurricane Milton, which impacted the area last night.

So far, 12 deaths have been confirmed, but there are fears that number will rise as communications and power are restored to some 3 million people.

Milton made landfall near Siesta Key, Florida, as a category 3 storm and weakened to category 1, as it cut through the state and moved offshore.

The state’s Governor Ron DeSantis said at least 340 people and 49 pets were rescued in the hurricane-impacted area as of Thursday afternoon.

He said Florida National Guard, local law enforcement, and urban search and rescue teams remain engaged throughout the state.

Meanwhile Consul General of Jamaica in Miami, Oliver Mair, said preliminary reports indicate that Jamaicans suffered only minor impacts from the hurricane.

He added that the consulate continues to monitor the situation while urging those in need to reach out to the relevant agencies.