MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – Idalia has finally headed north of Florida, and while the Ocala area only saw some heavy rain, downed trees and scattered palm fronds, other counties in the 352 area and across the state suffered more serious storm damage. That’s why Marion County officials are getting on the road to help.
Wednesday evening, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) shared a video on Facebook of a long line of emergency vehicles, from deputy cruisers to civilian pick-up trucks. The caravan of cars was on its way to Madison County in north Florida, which deputies say was one of the communities affected most by the storm.
“We made it through the storm. Now our team’s going to go help a fellow county. We’re heading to Madison right now to take care of them,” said Sheriff Billy Woods before he drove off, leading the line of nearly 30 emergency vehicles, trailers and equipment.
Marion County prepared for the worst with this storm, but Idalia turned out not to hurt the county as much as other areas. All those preparations and supplies aren’t going to waste, though: Now, they can be used to help others.
“We are blessed here in Marion County to have the necessary resources to help those in need,” said Woods. “While we fared well through the storm, others didn’t.” He said he’s proud of his deputies’ willingness to leave their own homes and go help folks they don’t even know.