TAMPA, FL — Joseph Malinowski, known as “Lieutenant Dan” on social media, gained national attention for riding out Hurricane Milton on his 20-foot sailboat. Despite evacuation warnings and rescue attempts, the 54-year-old refused to leave his boat.

Malinowski, who rose to fame after posting videos of surviving Hurricane Helene, kept his audience updated throughout Milton, assuring followers he was fine even as the storm intensified. “Ihaven’t even spilled my coffee yet,” he joked on TikTok.

By Thursday morning, Malinowski confirmed to NBC News he was safe. Over $39,000 has been raised to buy him a new boat, with streamer Adin Ross pledging additional support. Malinowski plans to use his platform to inspire others, saying, “We’re all in it together.”

Though Hurricane Milton caused devastation, Malinowski remained calm, telling followers, “Everything’s going to be fine.”