Norwegian photographer observes Hurricane Milton from Lake Nona hotel as storm approaches

Pål Laukli, a Norwegian photographer, finds himself in an unexpected situation during a work trip to Florida as Hurricane Milton approaches. With wind speeds surpassing 250 kilometers per hour, Milton has been classified as a category 5 hurricane. While many Norwegians have evacuated the state, Laukli and his group opted to remain in Lake Nona, where they prepared for the storm by stocking their hotel room with food and water.

Currently on the fifteenth floor, Laukli observes the approaching hurricane from his panoramic view. “I had hoped to see it in daylight; it could be impressive. I see cows in a field just outside my window and I’m curious about what will happen to them,” he shared.

Initially, Laukli was scheduled to fly back to Norway, but his flight was canceled due to the severe weather. He decided to ride out the storm at The Wave Hotel rather than risk being on the road when it hits. He expresses understanding of the devastation such storms can cause, particularly in this flat terrain where flooding is likely. “I’ve seen entire neighborhoods vanish underwater, and people needing to be rescued by boat; it could be quite dramatic,” he remarked.

Residents of trailer parks have received evacuation orders, but Laukli notes that most people seem calm. “They are used to these situations and are often more concerned about others than themselves,” he observed. He finds the constant media coverage overwhelming, noting the difference between seeing the storm on television and speaking to locals who don’t perceive it as stressful. Despite feeling relatively unfazed, Laukli admits it might be “famous last words” and anticipates a fascinating night ahead.