(VIDEO) Tropicana Field Devastated by Hurricane Milton
Tropicana Field, home of the Tampa Bay Rays, suffered severe structural damage after being hit by Hurricane Milton. The stadium’s roof, designed to withstand strong winds, was torn apart in several sections by the storm’s powerful gusts, leaving much of the interior exposed.
Footage shared on social media by journalist Ryan Bass shows parts of the dome’s panels being ripped off and crashing to the ground as wind and rain lash the area.
Fortunately, there were no injuries, as the stadium was not being used as a shelter, and authorities had already relocated the emergency center that had been set up there. However, the material damage is significant, and the total cost of repairs is still unknown.
Tropicana Field, famous for its iconic dome, has been the Rays’ home since 1998 and is one of the oldest stadiums in Major League Baseball. The damage caused by the hurricane raises concerns about the long-term viability of the stadium, especially amid ongoing discussions about building a new stadium for the team.
Despite the damage, the Rays have confirmed that all staff and essential personnel present at the stadium during the storm are safe. Local authorities and the Rays are currently assessing the extent of the damage to the stadium and surrounding areas.
Hurricane Milton, which heavily impacted Florida’s Gulf Coast, left a trail of destruction in many parts of the state, with Tropicana Field being just one of many structures affected.