The aftermath of Hurricane Ian showed massive damage to communities and properties in Florida. Residents started to return to their homes rampaged by the Hurricane. While residents began to rebuild their homes, some still suffer from floodwaters that have yet to recede.
Communities started their cleanup efforts to rebuild their homes. The government has begun clearing operations for Hurricane Ian's debris and urgently restored power. Meanwhile, good-hearted volunteers provided temporary shelters, food packs, and medical assistance.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said they launched the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program to help small businesses that suffered from Hurricane Ian, adding that over $2.5 million in loans were awarded to 55 small businesses.
Moreover, DeSantis also added that they initiated talks with small businesses in South Florida for the necessary resources.
DeSantis also added that a temporary repair of the Sanibel Causeway would be helpful to augment power restoration efforts in affected communities.
A recent report from AccuWeather explained that some residents in Florida still suffer from floodwaters that have yet to recede.
To travel, residents use their kayaks or boats.
Floodwaters are yet to recede
Hurricane Ian Boatby Joe Raedle/Getty Images
According to AccuWeather, Seminole Country families in Northeast Orlando still wait for the floodwaters to recede near the Near Lake Harney and St. Johns River.
Residents living in the area shared with AccuWeather that they had never encountered the experience from previous hurricanes. The report noted the following:
The report also noted that roadways also suffered from flooding.
Some part of State Route 46 in the east-west route, Central Florida, is closed due to the floodwaters.
The report from NOAA added that St. Johns River recorded 6.26 feet of floodwaters (Wednesday morning), which weeks are needed to decrease or return to a normal level.
In Forth Myers, floodwaters receded, and the residents finally began cleaning up and sorting damaged belongings.
Meanwhile, in Lee County, located nearly 140 miles to the West, residents started cleaning Hurricane Ian's debris after floodwaters finally receded.
U.S President Joe Biden recently visited Florida. The President explained the importance of building back better and stronger for the next storm. According to Reuters, President Biden promised to help the affected communities and extend immediate assistance to cleanup and recovery.
Safety Tips
Hurricane Ianby Joe Raedle/Getty Images
As residents return to their homes, it is essential to be safe from the debris of Hurricane Ian, especially in those places with floodwaters yet to recede. Here are some important reminders.
Stay updated with the current announcements
Keep updated with the local officials' advisories and assistance. If your area is still submerged or the waters have yet to recede, wait for the official announcements if it is safe to go back.
Be careful with debris
Be extra careful in picking up debris. Some debris may be sharp and can cause injuries. For toxic or flammable materials, it is best to consult an expert or local officials. Coordinate with your communities for the garbage you will throw.
Watch out for electrical materials
Be careful with electrical outlets, materials, or ground wires. Save only the needed supply as possible.
Refrain from traveling to submerged areas
Avoid traveling to closed roadways with floodwaters that have yet to recede.
