People in coastal areas of Florida impacted by the recent hurricanes have something else to worry about — flesh-eating bacteria.

On a dark night, a fierce storm gave Florida a sharp blow to the head. Less than two weeks later, another tore through its heart.

As Florida rebuilds in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, an invisible threat lurks in the floodwaters: a potentially deadly bacteria.

Florida health officials have warned residents to stay away from floodwaters, following a spike in cases of Vibrio vulnificus infection.

When most people think of the recent hurricane that hit Florida, images of destroyed homes, wrecked roads, and storm surges come to mind. But amidst the chaos, a hidden enemy has claimed 13 lives this year—a deadly bacteria that thrives in storm-ravaged environments.

Thirteen people have died from Vibrio vulnificus infections in Florida this year, following a surge in cases linked to Hurricane Helene.