TALLAHASSEE, FL (352today.com) – Governor Ron DeSantis has provided key updates on the ongoing response and recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene, focusing on several counties in the 352.
Here are some of the main points relevant to these areas:
- Power Restoration & Infrastructure: Efforts are underway to restore power to impacted areas. As of October 2, more than 20,000 Floridians remained without power, but crews are actively working on repairs, with particular focus on traffic signals and utilities in counties like Levy, Citrus, and Dixie.
- Search and Rescue: The Florida National Guard and other state agencies have rescued over 160 people and are continuing search and rescue operations. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) teams, specifically in Levy and Dixie counties, are conducting welfare checks and debris clearance using specialized high-water vehicles.
- Debris Removal: In impacted coastal areas, such as Levy and Citrus counties, teams have cleared over 4.6 miles of coastline and 7.2 miles of navigable waters. These efforts are critical to reopening local waterways and restoring normalcy to these regions.
- Public Assistance: FEMA has approved individual and public assistance for several counties, including Citrus, Dixie, Hernando, and Levy. This assistance covers debris removal, emergency work, and infrastructure repairs.
- Relief Distribution: Over one million liters of water, 800,000 meals, and nearly 40,000 tarps have been distributed to those in need across the affected counties, with specific relief operations targeting communities in Levy and nearby areas.
Residents in these counties are encouraged to stay informed through local emergency management resources and continue to follow instructions from the Florida Division of Emergency Management for ongoing recovery efforts.