As Hurricane Milton threatened Florida’s Gulf Coast with catastrophic storm surges, TikTok star Joseph Malinowski, known as “Lieutenant Dan,” made headlines for refusing to evacuate. While authorities issued dire warnings, Malinowski chose to stay aboard his 20-foot sailboat anchored in Tampa Bay.
Despite pleas from local officials and his 551,000 TikTok followers, Malinowski remained firm, citing his faith. In a video, he shared, “God told me to get this boat. He’s got my back.” Tampa’s mayor warned that staying meant certain death, but Malinowski was undeterred.
As the storm approached, a fan gifted him a GoPro to document his experience, heightening concerns about his safety. Malinowski’s decision to stay on the boat during the storm became a viral focal point.
When Hurricane Milton made landfall, it brought torrential rains and storm surges. Though Tampa avoided the worst, flooding and wind damage were severe. For hours, there was no word on Malinowski’s fate.
Finally, after the storm passed, updates confirmed his survival. Against the odds, he rode out the hurricane on his sailboat, his faith and conviction holding strong. Lieutenant Dan’s choice, though risky, ended in relief as he lived to tell the tale.
