In a stunning display of defiance, a Tampa man known as Joseph Malinowski, or “Lieutenant Dan” to the locals, has gained widespread attention on TikTok for his decision to stay aboard his boat during the evacuation orders triggered by Hurricane Milton. As one of the most dangerous storms to hit Florida in recent memory, Hurricane Milton’s destructive power has prompted local and national authorities to plead with residents in its path to evacuate, yet Joe Malinowski remained resolute in his decision to “ride out” the storm.
On October 9, 2024, residents of Tampa and other vulnerable regions of Florida were urged to evacuate immediately as Hurricane Milton approached the state with overwhelming force. Initially a tropical storm with winds clocked at around 40 mph, the weather system quickly intensified into a catastrophic Category 5 hurricane. According to the National Hurricane Center, Hurricane Milton’s winds have now reached up to 120 mph, with some areas experiencing gusts as high as 200 mph.
In addition to the sheer power of the winds, heavy rainfall and storm surges have contributed to life-threatening flooding. Meteorologists have warned that low-lying areas could be submerged, and some regions could see up to 20 inches of rain. Florida’s governor, alongside FEMA and other emergency services, has issued mandatory evacuation orders for thousands of residents along the coastline. Tampa, located in the storm’s direct path, was one of the hardest-hit areas.
With such deadly conditions looming, most residents have taken the warnings seriously. Local authorities have set up shelters, and many people have evacuated the city in search of safer ground. However, Joe Malinowski has become an outlier, attracting national attention with his bold refusal to leave his boat, the *Sea Shell*, which is anchored in Tampa Bay.
Speaking to *Sky News* from the deck of the *Sea Shell*, Malinowski seemed remarkably calm despite the rising tension around him. “I’m gonna be fine,” he stated with conviction. “This is a boat. It’s meant to be on water. The water’s going to surge, it’s not a tsunami.” His words, though brimming with confidence, fly in the face of the scientific evidence and professional advice being offered by authorities.
When asked why he refused to evacuate, Joe maintained that he had weathered storms before, including Hurricane Helene. He pointed out that he had slept through that storm without any problems. “I have no concerns,” he added. “God’s got me. I’m gonna hunker down and do my TikTok.”
Despite his dismissive attitude toward the hurricane’s dangers, experts have repeatedly emphasized that staying on a boat during such a massive storm is not only risky but potentially deadly. During storm surges, boats are often tossed about uncontrollably, and many vessels are lost or capsized under these extreme conditions. Emergency responders often find it difficult or impossible to reach those in distress once the worst of the storm begins.
Joe’s decision to stay behind has been met with a mixture of disbelief, admiration, and concern. On social media, where his video has gone viral, many users are calling him “reckless” and “foolish” for not taking the warnings seriously. Others have embraced his carefree attitude, viewing him as a sort of folk hero for defying government orders and standing his ground.
But while social media reactions are split, local authorities are more focused on preventing a tragedy. Officials have reminded residents that defying evacuation orders can not only put their own lives in danger but also endanger the lives of first responders who might be called in to perform dangerous rescues. Tampa’s mayor and Florida’s governor have stressed that this storm is not to be underestimated and that residents need to prioritize their safety above all else.
As Hurricane Milton continues to batter the Florida coast, officials have confirmed widespread flooding and wind damage. More than a million people across the state are without power, and the damage to infrastructure is expected to be severe. Some coastal areas have already reported buildings completely destroyed by the powerful storm surges, while inland flooding continues to be a major concern.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has activated resources to assist in the recovery efforts, but much of the focus remains on immediate survival. Emergency services are still conducting search-and-rescue operations, and authorities have pleaded with those who chose to stay behind to remain sheltered and avoid taking unnecessary risks.
As Joe Malinowski sits aboard his boat, waiting out the storm, the situation in Tampa and other parts of Florida remains dire. The full impact of Hurricane Milton may not be realized for days, but the destruction left in its wake is expected to be monumental. While Joe’s TikTok fame may provide a brief moment of levity for some, his decision to stay aboard the *Sea Shell* serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable and often deadly consequences of defying natural forces.
In the end, Hurricane Milton is a powerful reminder of the importance of heeding evacuation orders, respecting nature’s raw power, and prioritizing safety over bravado. For Joe, and others who stayed behind, the real challenge is surviving the storm itself, and hoping that luck, or perhaps faith, will guide them through.