Hurricane Helene As It Approached Florida's Gulf Coast On September 25, 2024

Hillsborough County Extends State Of Emergency For Hurricane Helene Recovery

Hurricane Helene As It Approached Florida's Gulf Coast On September 25, 2024
Hurricane Helene As It Approached Florida’s Gulf Coast On September 25, 2024

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – Hillsborough County is extending its state of local emergency as recovery efforts continue following Hurricane Helene. This marks the second active state of emergency for the county, which is also operating under an emergency declaration for Hurricane Milton.

County Administrator Bonnie Wise signed an executive order extending the Hurricane Helene emergency declaration through November 11th. The initial order was put in place on September 23rd as the storm approached Florida.

READ: FEMA: Experts Offer Tips On Salvaging Treasured Items Damaged By Florida Hurricanes

This extension allows the county to continue taking necessary actions to support residents and communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. It also ensures the county remains eligible for federal reimbursement of certain expenses related to the hurricane response.

The state of emergency provides the county with:

  • Flexibility to Respond: The ability to quickly address emerging needs and challenges related to the hurricane recovery.
  • Resource Coordination: Enhanced coordination with state and federal agencies to maximize support and resources.
  • Financial Assistance: A pathway to receive federal funding for eligible expenses, such as debris removal and infrastructure repair.

While this state of emergency specifically addresses Hurricane Helene, Hillsborough County is also operating under a separate state of emergency for Hurricane Milton, which was extended through November 10th.

This dual state of emergency highlights the significant impact these storms have had on the county and the ongoing need for recovery efforts.

Hurricane Helene, a powerful Category 4 storm, slammed into Florida’s Big Bend region in late September, causing widespread devastation across the Southeast.

The storm brought catastrophic flooding, damaging winds, and torrential rainfall to Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas. Coastal communities experienced significant storm surges and inundation, while inland areas faced widespread flooding and landslides.

Recovery efforts are underway, but the impacts of Hurricane Helene will be felt for months to come.

FEMA OUTREACH:

Floridians impacted by recent hurricanes can get expert advice on how to salvage their treasured belongings at three Disaster Recovery Centers this week.

Preservation specialists from the Save Your Family Treasures Program will be on hand to provide guidance on salvaging damaged items such as:

  • Photos
  • Artwork
  • Textiles
  • Other personal belongings

READ: Potential Tropical Cyclone 18: Threatens Jamaica, Cuba, And Florida Keys; Gulf Coast Also At Risk

These specialists are part of the Heritage Emergency National Task Force, a partnership between FEMA and the Smithsonian Institution dedicated to protecting cultural heritage from the damaging effects of disasters.

Locations and Dates:

Experts will be available from Sunday, November 3rd, through Thursday, November 7th, at the following locations:

  • Enoch Davis Center: 1111 18th Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
  • Sarasota Municipal Auditorium: 801 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
  • Orange County Multi-Cultural Center: 7149 W Colonial Dr., Orlando, FL (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

This is a valuable opportunity for those who have experienced damage to their cherished possessions due to hurricanes. Don’t miss this chance to get expert advice on how to save your treasured items.

FEMA has stepped up to provide crucial financial support for Florida’s recovery from a series of devastating hurricanes. Over $1 billion in federal aid has been allocated to help the state and local communities cope with the aftermath of Hurricanes Milton, Helene, and Debby.

This funding, provided through FEMA’s Public Assistance program, is specifically designed to reimburse eligible entities for costs incurred during emergency response and recovery efforts. State and local governments, along with certain non-profit organizations, can receive reimbursement for expenses related to protecting lives and property during the storms.

READ: NHC: Caribbean Disturbance Likely To Develop Into Tropical Depression

A significant portion of the funding will also go towards the massive task of debris removal. Clearing roads, public spaces, and residential areas of the debris left behind by these powerful storms is a critical step in the recovery process.

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