Pinellas County Reeling from Impact of Hurricanes Helene and Milton
Pinellas County is grappling with the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which have caused significant damage within the region. The storms have inflicted approximately $136 million in damages to local businesses. In total, over 23,000 homes were significantly affected, with nearly 2,000 homes sustaining damage from both hurricanes.
Extent of the Damage
As the situation unfolds, around 1,100 businesses reported adverse effects due to the hurricanes. Fortunately, a little over 90 businesses have reopened along the beach as recovery efforts gain momentum. However, assessments of the damage are ongoing, and experts suggest that the overall cost of damages may continue to rise.
FEMA Assistance and Community Efforts
In response to the crisis, nearly 274,000 residents have applied for individual assistance through FEMA, a program that is set to end on January 7. In addition to individual assistance, more than 34,000 residents sought emergency food aid, although this program has recently concluded.
FEMA is working closely with local property management companies to identify rental accommodations for the impacted and displaced residents. Currently, over 3,700 displaced households are residing in hotels, supported through federal and state aid.
State Programs and Local Recovery Actions
In light of the destruction, the state is preparing to introduce the Elevate Florida program, aimed at expediting funding for residential structure elevation and mitigation. This comes as many residents look to enhance their properties against future storms.
Meanwhile, St. Petersburg’s city council has taken action by extending its emergency order. This measure allows residents to place debris in the right-of-way and waives certain permitting fees, facilitating quicker recovery.
Damage Assessments and Cleanup Efforts
The city has already completed over 6,000 damage assessments, approving nearly 2,900 emergency applications for repair work. Initial estimates for storm damages in St. Petersburg are projected between $80 million and $90 million, with more precise figures expected in January.
To support recovery efforts, the city has successfully removed over 2.05 million cubic yards of debris and is currently undertaking a second sweep to ensure the community is returning to normalcy.
Looking Forward
As residents begin the long process of recovery, city officials and emergency responders continue to focus on providing the necessary support and resources. The impact of Hurricanes Helene and Milton will be felt for time to come, but with coordinated efforts from FEMA, local officials, and the community, Pinellas County is determined to rebuild and restore its homes and businesses.
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
