(CNN) Hurricane Irma's powerful center crossed the Florida Keys and tore into the state's Gulf Coast, downing trees, hurling street signs and debris, and knocking the power out to hundreds of thousands of residents throughout the state.

The National Hurricane Center said Irma is expected to remain powerful as it heads north along the state's Gulf Coast.

This is the scene in Florida as Irma blasts the state with torrential winds and rain.

Miami

Waves batter a seawall in Miami as Hurricane Irma arrives on September 10.

CNN's Derek Van Dam, reporting from Miami Beach, said the roaring winds felt like a jet engine. "It just stings every time one of these gusts comes through."

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