FEMA approves $6.7 million grant funding for Hurricane Ian debris removal in southwest Florida
ByCasey Wright, WDBO News & Talk
TOPSHOT-US-WEATHER-HURRICANE-IAN TOPSHOT - Workers and residents clear debris from a destroyed bar on San Carlos Island in Fort Myers after Hurricane Ian hit Florida, on October 1, 2022. - Shocked Florida communities counted their dead Saturday as the full scale of the devastation came into focus, two days after Hurricane Ian tore into the coastline as one of the most powerful storms ever to hit the United States. (Photo by Giorgio VIERA / AFP) (Photo by GIORGIO VIERA/AFP via Getty Images)
ByCasey Wright, WDBO News & Talk
Fort Myers, FL — FEMA has approved more than $6.7 million to reimburse Fort Myers and Punta Gorda for debris removal costs after Hurricane Ian.
The aftermath of Ian left mass debris fields, which created a threat to public health and safety.
FEMA announced they have approved $4,212,798 in federal funding to the city of Fort Myers and $2,550,889 to the city of Punta Gorda, for debris removal after Hurricane Ian.
Hurricane Ian made landfall in Florida on September 28, 2022, as a category 4 storm with sustained winds of 150 miles per hour.
Hurricane Ian destroyed 5,000 homes and damaged over 30,000 in Florida. 160 people died as a result from the major hurricane, 149 of them from Florida.
Ian is the fifth strongest storm to ever hit U.S. soil. The major hurricane resulted in $65 billion in damage.
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Orlo Vista flooding After years of complaints about flooding issues in the Orlo Vista, the damage done by Hurricane Ian’s rains is the final straw. (WFTV.com News Staff)
St. Cloud flooding St. Cloud officials said the vandalization of an outfall pipe near neighborhoods flooded by Hurricane Ian could cause those floodwaters to rise more quickly. (WFTV.com News Staff)
Hurricane Ian: What you need to know
Photos: Rescues, evacuations continue in Florida after Hurricane Ian Members of Florida Army National Guard arrive on October 2, 2022, in Pine Island, Florida. Residents are being encouraged to leave because the only road onto the island is impassable and electricity and water remain knocked out after Hurricane Ian passed through the area. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Rescues, evacuations continue in Florida after Hurricane Ian Dr. Karen Calkins (left) and Ricki Jackson help Ced Franklin onto a bus to be driven to an evacuation boat on October 2, 2022, in Pine Island, Florida. Residents are being encouraged to leave because the only road onto the island is impassable and electricity and water remain knocked out after Hurricane Ian passed through the area. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Rescues, evacuations continue in Florida after Hurricane Ian Florida Army National Guard members unload supplies from a helicopter on October 2, 2022, in Pine Island, Florida. Residents of the island are being encouraged to leave because the only road onto the island is impassable and electricity and water remain knocked out after Hurricane Ian passed through the area. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Rescues, evacuations continue in Florida after Hurricane Ian Residents are evacuated from the island by boats on October 2, 2022, in Pine Island, Florida. Residents are being encouraged to leave because the only road onto the island is impassable and electricity and water remain knocked out after Hurricane Ian passed through the area. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Rescues, evacuations continue in Florida after Hurricane Ian Francis Gersic is evacuated by a Florida Army National Guard chinook on October 2, 2022, in Pine Island, Florida. Residents are being encouraged to leave because the only road onto the island is impassable and electricity and water remain knocked out after Hurricane Ian passed through the area. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Rescues, evacuations continue in Florida after Hurricane Ian A Florida Army National Guard chinook lands to deliver supplies and evacuate residents on October 2, 2022, in Pine Island, Florida. Residents of the island are being encouraged to leave due to the only road onto the island was made impassable and the electricity and water were knocked out when Hurricane Ian passed through the area. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Rescues, evacuations continue in Florida after Hurricane Ian A Florida Army National Guard helicopter prepares to land as Madeline Thayer walks to an evacuation center on the island on October 2, 2022, in Pine Island, Florida. Residents are being encouraged to leave because the only road onto the island is impassable and electricity and water remain knocked out after Hurricane Ian passed through the area. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Rescues, evacuations continue in Florida after Hurricane Ian Tom O'Sullivan his dog Jack and Harry Marquard prepare to be evacuated in a Florida Army National Guard helicopter on October 2, 2022, in Pine Island, Florida. Residents are being encouraged to leave because the only road onto the island is impassable and electricity and water remain knocked out after Hurricane Ian passed through the area. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Rescues, evacuations continue in Florida after Hurricane Ian Residents make their way to a boat to be evacuate from the island on October 2, 2022, in Pine Island, Florida. Residents of the island are being encouraged to leave because the only road onto the island is impassable and electricity and water remain knocked out after Hurricane Ian passed through the area. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Rescues, evacuations continue in Florida after Hurricane Ian Tom O'Sullivan along with his dog, Jack, and Harry Marquard prepare to be evacuated in a Florida Army National Guard helicopter on October 2, 2022, in Pine Island, Florida. Residents of the island are being encouraged to leave because the only road onto the island is impassable and electricity and water remain knocked out after Hurricane Ian passed through the area. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Rescues, evacuations continue in Florida after Hurricane Ian Catherine Bhinder is helped out of a truck as she arrives at an evacuation center on October 2, 2022, in Pine Island, Florida. Residents are being encouraged to leave because the only road onto the island is impassable and electricity and water remain knocked out after Hurricane Ian passed through the area. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Rescues, evacuations continue in Florida after Hurricane Ian Residents are evacuated from the island by boats on October 2, 2022, in Pine Island, Florida. Residents are being encouraged to leave because the only road onto the island is impassable and electricity and water remain knocked out after Hurricane Ian passed through the area. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Rescues, evacuations continue in Florida after Hurricane Ian A Florida Army National Guard helicopter lifts off as they evacuate residents on October 2, 2022, in Pine Island, Florida. Residents are being encouraged to leave because the only road onto the island is impassable and electricity and water remain knocked out after Hurricane Ian passed through the area. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Rescues, evacuations continue in Florida after Hurricane Ian Joann Vollmar (left) and Frank Vollmar walk along a dock after being evacuated on October 2, 2022, in Pine Island, Florida. Residents are being encouraged to leave because the only road onto the island is impassable and electricity and water remain knocked out after Hurricane Ian passed through the area. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Rescues, evacuations continue in Florida after Hurricane Ian Residents make their way to a boat to be evacuate from the island on October 2, 2022, in Pine Island, Florida. Residents are being encouraged to leave because the only road onto the island is impassable and electricity and water remain knocked out after Hurricane Ian passed through the area. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Rescues, evacuations continue in Florida after Hurricane Ian Ricki Jackson sits with Ced Franklin (left) before she boards a bus to be driven to an evacuation boat on October 2, 2022, in Pine Island, Florida. Residents are being encouraged to leave because the only road onto the island is impassable and electricity and water remain knocked out after Hurricane Ian passed through the area. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Rescues, evacuations continue in Florida after Hurricane Ian Residents are driven to where they will be evacuated by boat on October 2, 2022, in Pine Island, Florida. Residents are being encouraged to leave because the only road onto the island is impassable and electricity and water remain knocked out after Hurricane Ian passed through the area. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Rescues, evacuations continue in Florida after Hurricane Ian Residents are evacuated from the island by boat on October 2, 2022, in Pine Island, Florida. Residents are being encouraged to leave because the only road onto the island is impassable and electricity and water remain knocked out after Hurricane Ian passed through the area. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Rescues, evacuations continue in Florida after Hurricane Ian Tom O'Sullivan and his dog Jack look on as a Florida National Guard chinook lands as they prepare to be evacuated on October 2, 2022, in Pine Island, Florida. Residents are being encouraged to leave because the only road onto the island is impassable and electricity and water remain knocked out after Hurricane Ian passed through the area. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Rescues, evacuations continue in Florida after Hurricane Ian Search and Rescue personnel ride in be back of a truck on October 2, 2022, in Pine Island, Florida. Residents are being encouraged to leave because the only road onto the island is impassable and electricity and water remain knocked out after Hurricane Ian passed through the area. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Orlo Vista residents want change after flooding from Hurricane Ian (WFTV/WFTV)
Orlo Vista residents continue to struggle with flooding after Hurricane Ian (WFTV/WFTV)
SEPTEMBER 29 In this aerial view, flooded homes are shown after Hurricane Ian moved through the Gulf Coast of Florida on September 29, 2022 in Port Charlotte, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surges and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Win McNamee/Getty Images)
SEPTEMBER 28 Motorists travel across the John Ringling Causeway as Hurricane Ian churns to the south on September 28, 2022 in Sarasota, Florida. The storm made a U.S. landfall at Cayo Costa, Florida this afternoon as a Category 4 hurricane with wind speeds over 140 miles per hour in some areas. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
SEPTEMBER 30 Jordan Reidy carries his dog, Ivory, back to their second-floor apartment after fleeing when Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 30, 2022 in Fort Myers, Florida. Mr. Reidy and his mother plan to stay at the home because they feel like they have no where else to go. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surges and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
SEPTEMBER 29 Boats are pushed up on a causeway after Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 29, 2022 in Fort Myers, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
SEPTEMBER 27 Frederic Herodet and Mary Herodet board up their Gulf Bistro restaurant as they prepare for the possible arrival of Hurricane Ian on September 27, 2022 in St Petersburg Beach, Florida. Hurricane Ian is expected to make landfall in the Tampa Bay area Wednesday night into early Thursday morning. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
SEPTEMBER 29 Tom Park begins cleaning up after Hurricane Ian moved through the Gulf Coast of Florida on September 29, 2022 in Punta Gorda, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Win McNamee/Getty Images)
SEPTEMBER 30 Deb McGinty walks with outstretched arms near her apartment as she said she was, "Thanking God that I'm alive" after Hurricane Ian passed through on September 30, 2022 in Fort Myers, Florida. Mrs. McGinty said she rode the storm out in her home and feels lucky to be alive. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surges and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
SEPTEMBER 27 Heavy traffic moves slowly on I-4 East as residents evacuate the Gulf Coast of Florida in advance of the arrival of Hurricane Ian on September 27, 2022 in Four Corners, Florida. Ian is expected in the Tampa Bay area Wednesday night into early Thursday morning. (Win McNamee/Getty Images)
SEPTEMBER 29 Stedi Scuderi looks over her apartment after flood water inundated it when Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 29, 2022 in Fort Myers, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Video: Volusia County rebuilds, restores power after widespread damage from Hurricane Ian (WFTV/WFTV)
Florida damage: A burned vehicle from an electrical fire sits in front of damaged homes in Venice, Florida, after Hurricane Ian made landfall. (Tristan Wheelock/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Riverdale Elementary floods after Hurricane Ian passes through Orange County (WFTV/WFTV)
Historic Flagler Beach pier suffers damage after Hurricane Ian (WFTV)
Brevard County utilities ask residents to conserve water after Hurricane Ian (WFTV/WFTV)
Orlo Vista flooding Homes remain flooded by Hurricane Ian in Orange County’s Orlo Vista neighborhood
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida MATLACHA, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 30: A chair sits on a flooded roadway in the wake of Hurricane Ian on September 30, 2022 in Matlacha, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) (Win McNamee/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida MATLACHA, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 30: Wreckage left in the wake of Hurricane Ian is shown on the island of Matlacha on September 30, 2022 in Matlacha, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) (Win McNamee/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida MATLACHA, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 30: Pine Island residents Wolfgang Nester (R) and his son Sebastian walk amongst the wreckage lef in the wake of Hurricane Ian on the island of Matlacha on September 30, 2022 in Matlacha, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) (Win McNamee/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida MATLACHA, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 30: Whitney Hall (R) embraces a friend atop the remains of his home amidst wreckage left in the wake of Hurricane Ian on the island of Matlacha on September 30, 2022 in Matlacha, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) (Win McNamee/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida MATLACHA, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 30: Whitney Hall waves to a friend from the remains of his home while waving the American flag amidst wreckage left in the wake of Hurricane Ian on the island of Matlacha on September 30, 2022 in Matlacha, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) (Win McNamee/Getty Images)
Hurricane Ian coastal damage
Orlo Vista flooding Homes remain flooded by Hurricane Ian in Orange County’s Orlo Vista neighborhood
Hurricane Ian: Video shows rough seas washing away part of the Daytona Beach Sunglow Pier Mark Bessette (Mark Bessette)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida FORT MYERS, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 30: Deb McGinty walks with outstretched arms near her apartment as she said she was, "Thanking God that I'm alive" after Hurricane Ian passed through on September 30, 2022 in Fort Myers, Florida. Mrs. McGinty said she rode the storm out in her home and feels lucky to be alive. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surges and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Hurricane Ian: First look at economic impact in Florida
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida FORT MYERS, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 30: Lucy Montoya hugs niece Judy Sanchez after seeing her for the first time since Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 30, 2022 in Fort Myers, Florida. Mrs. Montoya said she road the storm out in the apartment and had to flee through a window because of flood waters in the middle of the storm to a second floor apartment. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surges and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida FORT MYERS, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 30: Frank Bruno speaks with members of the Texas A&M Task Force 1 Search and Rescue team as they look for anyone needing help after Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 30, 2022 in Fort Myers, Florida. Mr. Bruno said he road the storm out in his home and told the search team members that he was okay. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surges and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida FORT MYERS, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 30: Brian Siebert becomes emotional as he looks at what remains of his home after Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 30, 2022 in Fort Myers, Florida. Mr. Siebert feels like he has lost everything in the apartment because there was about 6 feet of water that inundated it. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surges and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida FORT MYERS, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 30: Sue Lepisto hugs her neighbor after they saw each other when they came to visit what was left of their homes after Hurricane Ian passed through on September 30, 2022 in Fort Myers, Florida. Their homes were flooded with about 6 feet of water. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surges and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida FORT MYERS, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 30: Val Stuart talks on a cell phone as she sits on the bed she setup on the floor after the apartment she was staying in was flooded when Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 30, 2022 in Fort Myers, Florida. Mrs. Stuart who evacuated from Sanibel before the storm ended up staying in the apartment and had to flee in the middle of the storm through a window because of flood waters to a second floor apartment. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surges and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida FORT MYERS, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 30: Omar Sanchez walks through flood waters to his apartment after Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 30, 2022 in Fort Myers, Florida. Mr. Sanchez said he had to flee from his first floor apartment to the second floor because flood waters inundated it. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surges and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida FORT MYERS, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 30: A member of the Texas A&M Task Force 1 Search and Rescue team looks for anyone needing help after Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 30, 2022 in Fort Myers, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surges and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida Osceloa County Sheriffs speaks to a resident as a creek rises from flooding following Hurricane Ian on September 30, 2022 in Kissimmee, Florida. - Forecasters expect Hurricane Ian to cause life-threatening storm surges in the Carolinas on Friday after unleashing devastation in Florida, where it left a yet unknown number of dead in its wake. After weakening across Florida, Ian regained its Category 1 status in the Atlantic Ocean and was headed toward the Carolinas, the US National Hurricane Center said Friday. (Photo by Bryan R. Smith / AFP) (Photo by BRYAN R. SMITH/AFP via Getty Images) (BRYAN R. SMITH/AFP via Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida A woman walks down the stairs from her house as a creek overflows from flooding following Hurricane Ian on September 30, 2022 in Kissimmee, Florida. - Forecasters expect Hurricane Ian to cause life-threatening storm surges in the Carolinas on Friday after unleashing devastation in Florida, where it left a yet unknown number of dead in its wake. After weakening across Florida, Ian regained its Category 1 status in the Atlantic Ocean and was headed toward the Carolinas, the US National Hurricane Center said Friday. (Photo by Bryan R. Smith / AFP) (Photo by BRYAN R. SMITH/AFP via Getty Images) (BRYAN R. SMITH/AFP via Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida Osceloa County Sheriffs use a fanboat to rescue residents from flooding following Hurricane Ian on September 30, 2022 in Kissimmee, Florida. - Forecasters expect Hurricane Ian to cause life-threatening storm surges in the Carolinas on Friday after unleashing devastation in Florida, where it left a yet unknown number of dead in its wake. After weakening across Florida, Ian regained its Category 1 status in the Atlantic Ocean and was headed toward the Carolinas, the US National Hurricane Center said Friday. (Photo by Bryan R. Smith / AFP) (Photo by BRYAN R. SMITH/AFP via Getty Images) (BRYAN R. SMITH/AFP via Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida Osceloa County Sheriffs use a fanboat to rescue residents from flooding following Hurricane Ian on September 30, 2022 in Kissimmee, Florida. - Forecasters expect Hurricane Ian to cause life-threatening storm surges in the Carolinas on Friday after unleashing devastation in Florida, where it left a yet unknown number of dead in its wake. After weakening across Florida, Ian regained its Category 1 status in the Atlantic Ocean and was headed toward the Carolinas, the US National Hurricane Center said Friday. (Photo by Bryan R. Smith / AFP) (Photo by BRYAN R. SMITH/AFP via Getty Images) (BRYAN R. SMITH/AFP via Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida A man stops in front of his house as a creek overflows from flooding following Hurricane Ian on September 30, 2022 in Kissimmee, Florida. - Forecasters expect Hurricane Ian to cause life-threatening storm surges in the Carolinas on Friday after unleashing devastation in Florida, where it left a yet unknown number of dead in its wake. After weakening across Florida, Ian regained its Category 1 status in the Atlantic Ocean and was headed toward the Carolinas, the US National Hurricane Center said Friday. (Photo by Bryan R. Smith / AFP) (Photo by BRYAN R. SMITH/AFP via Getty Images) (BRYAN R. SMITH/AFP via Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida Osceloa County Sheriffs use a fanboat to rescue a 93 year-old resident from flooding following Hurricane Ian on September 30, 2022 in Kissimmee, Florida. - Forecasters expect Hurricane Ian to cause life-threatening storm surges in the Carolinas on Friday after unleashing devastation in Florida, where it left a yet unknown number of dead in its wake. After weakening across Florida, Ian regained its Category 1 status in the Atlantic Ocean and was headed toward the Carolinas, the US National Hurricane Center said Friday. (Photo by Bryan R. Smith / AFP) (Photo by BRYAN R. SMITH/AFP via Getty Images) (BRYAN R. SMITH/AFP via Getty Images)
WATCH: Floridians share images of Hurricane Ian damage
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida PORT CHARLOTTE, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 30: In this aerial view, vehicles drive through standing water left in the wake of Hurricane Ian on September 30, 2022 in Port Charlotte, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surges, and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) (Win McNamee/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida PORT CHARLOTTE, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 30: In this aerial view, vehicles line up to purchase gasoline in the wake of Hurricane Ian on September 30, 2022 in Port Charlotte, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surges and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) (Win McNamee/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida A fallen sign following Hurricane Ian in Venice, Florida, US, on Thursday, Sept. 29, 2022. Ian, now a hurricane again, is threatening to carve a new path of destruction through South Carolina Friday when it roars ashore north of Charleston. Photographer: Tristan Wheelock/Bloomberg via Getty Images (Bloomberg/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida FORT MYERS, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 30: Ron Waselenchuk inspects his sailboat which was pushed ashore by hurricane Ian on September 30, 2022 in Fort Myers, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida ORLANDO, FLORIDA, UNITED STATES - SEPTEMBER 29: Street signs are seen in the water in a flooded street in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian on September 29, 2022 in Orlando, Florida. The storm has caused widespread power outages and flash flooding in Central Florida as it crossed through the state after making landfall in the Fort Myers area as a Category 4 hurricane. (Photo by Paul Hennessy/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images) (Anadolu Agency/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida FORT MYERS, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 30: A wall of a condo was torn off as hurricane Ian passed through on September 30, 2022 in Fort Myers, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida Damage to a McDonald's restaurant following Hurricane Ian in Venice, Florida, US, on Thursday, Sept. 29, 2022. Ian, now a hurricane again, is threatening to carve a new path of destruction through South Carolina Friday when it roars ashore north of Charleston. Photographer: Tristan Wheelock/Bloomberg via Getty Images (Bloomberg/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian's devastating impact on Florida ORLANDO, FLORIDA, UNITED STATES - SEPTEMBER 29: Members of the Florida National Guard look for stranded residents in a flooded neighborhood in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian on September 29, 2022 in Orlando, Florida. The storm has caused widespread power outages and flash flooding in Central Florida as it crossed through the state after making landfall in the Fort Myers area as a Category 4 hurricane. (Photo by Paul Hennessy/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images) (Anadolu Agency/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
SEE: Fort Myers devastated by Hurricane Ian
Homes remain flooded by Hurricane Ian in Orange County’s Orlo Vista neighborhood
Homes remain flooded by Hurricane Ian in Orange County’s Orlo Vista neighborhood
Homes remain flooded by Hurricane Ian in Orange County’s Orlo Vista neighborhood
Homes remain flooded by Hurricane Ian in Orange County’s Orlo Vista neighborhood
Homes remain flooded by Hurricane Ian in Orange County’s Orlo Vista neighborhood
Homes remain flooded by Hurricane Ian in Orange County’s Orlo Vista neighborhood
Homes remain flooded by Hurricane Ian in Orange County’s Orlo Vista neighborhood
Homes remain flooded by Hurricane Ian in Orange County’s Orlo Vista neighborhood
Homes remain flooded by Hurricane Ian in Orange County’s Orlo Vista neighborhood
Hurricane Ian: What you need to know
Homes remain flooded by Hurricane Ian in Orange County’s Orlo Vista neighborhood
Homes remain flooded by Hurricane Ian in Orange County’s Orlo Vista neighborhood
Hurricane Ian slams into Florida's west coast In an aerial view, boats are piled on top of each other after Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 29, 2022, in Fort Myers Beach, Florida. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Floridians begin assessing catastrophic Hurricane Ian damage A man documents storm damage with his phone after Hurricane Ian on September 29, 2022, in Bonita Springs, Florida. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Floridians begin assessing catastrophic Hurricane Ian damage Storm damaged vehicles after Hurricane Ian on September 29, 2022, in Bonita Springs, Florida. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Floridians begin assessing catastrophic Hurricane Ian damage In this aerial view, the Sanibel Causeway bridge collapsed in places after Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 29, 2022, in Sanibel, Florida. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Floridians begin assessing catastrophic Hurricane Ian damage In this aerial view, boats sit grounded in a woodland area and along the side of the road after being pushed by rising water from Hurricane Ian near Fort Myers Beach on September 29, 2022, in San Carlos Island, Florida. (Win McNamee/Getty Images)
Floridians begin assessing catastrophic Hurricane Ian damage A man looks out to the Gulf of Mexico after Hurricane Ian on September 29, 2022, in Naples, Florida. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Floridians begin assessing catastrophic Hurricane Ian damage In this aerial view, a neighborhood remains flooded near downtown after Hurricane Ian on September 29, 2022, in Orlando, Florida. (Gerardo Mora/Getty Images)
Floridians begin assessing catastrophic Hurricane Ian damage In this aerial view, boats sit atop one another in a marina near Fort Myers Beach on September 29, 2022, in San Carlos Island, Florida. (Win McNamee/Getty Images)
Floridians begin assessing catastrophic Hurricane Ian damage Boats sit atop one another in a marina near Fort Myers Beach on September 29, 2022, in San Carlos Island, Florida. (Win McNamee/Getty Images)
Floridians begin assessing catastrophic Hurricane Ian damage Meagan Hoeschler recovers a family surf board on the beach after Hurricane Ian on September 29, 2022, in Naples, Florida. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Floridians begin assessing catastrophic Hurricane Ian damage Vehicles float in the water after Hurricane Ian on September 29, 2022, in Bonita Springs, Florida. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Floridians begin assessing catastrophic Hurricane Ian damage In an aerial view, damaged buildings are seen as Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 29, 2022, in Fort Myers Beach, Florida. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Floridians begin assessing catastrophic Hurricane Ian damage Storm debris fills a street after Hurricane Ian on September 29, 2022, in Bonita Springs, Florida. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Floridians begin assessing catastrophic Hurricane Ian damage In this aerial view, a home burns after Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 29, 2022, in Sanibel, Florida. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Floridians begin assessing catastrophic Hurricane Ian damage In this aerial view, the Sanibel Causeway bridge collapsed in places after Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 29, 2022, in Sanibel, Florida. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Floridians begin assessing catastrophic Hurricane Ian damage A woman walks her bike past boats blocking a road after Hurricane Ian on September 29, 2022, in Bonita Springs, Florida. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Floridians begin assessing catastrophic Hurricane Ian damage A car sits in floodwater after Hurricane Ian on September 29, 2022, in Orlando, Florida. (Gerardo Mora/Getty Images)
Floridians begin assessing catastrophic Hurricane Ian damage In this aerial view, cars sit in floodwater near downtown after Hurricane Ian on September 29, 2022, in Orlando, Florida. (Gerardo Mora/Getty Images)
Floridians begin assessing catastrophic Hurricane Ian damage Seth Jones, left, sorts through storm damaged video games as Jason Crosser looks on at Crossers storm damaged business, 8-Bit Hall of Fame, after Hurricane Ian on September 29, 2022, in Bonita Springs, Florida. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Floridians begin assessing catastrophic Hurricane Ian damage Doc's Beach House after Hurricane Ian on September 29, 2022, in Bonita Springs, Florida. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Floridians begin assessing catastrophic Hurricane Ian damage A storm damaged building after Hurricane Ian on September 29, 2022, in Bonita Springs, Florida. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Floridians begin assessing catastrophic Hurricane Ian damage People walk along a sidewalk blocked by boats after Hurricane Ian on September 29, 2022, in Bonita Springs, Florida. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Ian search: A helicopter hovers over Sanibel Island after Hurricane Ian roared through the area on Wednesday. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian aftermath FORT MYERS BEACH,FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 29: The pilings from Fort Myers Beach pier are all that are left after Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 29, 2022 in Fort Myers Beach, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian aftermath FORT MYERS BEACH,FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 29: In an aerial view, boats are piled on top of each other after Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 29, 2022 in Fort Myers Beach, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian aftermath FORT MYERS BEACH,FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 29: In an aerial view, damaged buildings are seen as Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 29, 2022 in Fort Myers Beach, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian aftermath FORT MYERS BEACH,FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 29: In an aerial view, damaged buildings are seen as Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 29, 2022 in Fort Myers Beach, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian aftermath FORT MYERS BEACH,FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 29: In an aerial view, damaged buildings are seen as Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 29, 2022 in Fort Myers Beach, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian aftermath FORT MYERS BEACH,FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 29: In an aerial view, damaged buildings are seen as Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 29, 2022 in Fort Myers Beach, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Lake Ivanhoe An apparent washout happened near Lake Ivanhoe following Hurricane Ian. (WFTV.com News Staff)
Photos: Hurricane Ian aftermath FORT MYERS BEACH, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 29: People walk past a building destroyed as Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 29, 2022 in Fort Myers Beach, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Lake Ivanhoe An apparent washout happened near Lake Ivanhoe following Hurricane Ian. (WFTV.com News Staff)
Photos: Hurricane Ian aftermath FORT MYERS FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 29: (L-R) Brock Hall and Brenda Hall cook lunch on their barbeque as Hurricane Ian passed through on September 29, 2022 in Fort Myers, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian aftermath PORT CHARLOTTE, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 29: In this aerial view, flooded homes are shown after Hurricane Ian moved through the Gulf Coast of Florida on September 29, 2022 in Port Charlotte, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surges and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) (Win McNamee/Getty Images)
Photos: Hurricane Ian aftermath BONITA SPRINGS, FL - SEPTEMBER 29: Debris is strewn across the beach caused by Hurricane Ian on September 29, 2022 in Bonita Springs, Florida. The storm made a U.S. landfall on Cayo Costa, Florida, and brought high winds, storm surges, and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Sean Rayford/Getty Images) (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Orlando flooding The heavy rains from Hurricane Ian have turned Lake Davis and Lake Cherokee into one large body of water. (WFTV.com News Staff)
Photos: Hurricane Ian aftermath An EF-2 tornado struck Delray Beach, Florida, as Hurricane Ian began its approach to Florida's west coast on Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2022. (Dave Dellinger/National Weather Service-Miami)
Photos: Hurricane Ian aftermath An EF-2 tornado struck Delray Beach, Florida, as Hurricane Ian began its approach to Florida's west coast on Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2022. (Dave Dellinger/National Weather Service-Miami)
Photos: Hurricane Ian aftermath An EF-2 tornado struck Delray Beach, Florida, as Hurricane Ian began its approach to Florida's west coast on Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2022. (Dave Dellinger/National Weather Service-Miami)
Hurricane Ian aftermath People walk along the beach looking at property damaged by Hurricane Ian on Sept. 29, 2022, in Bonita Springs, Florida. The storm made a U.S. landfall on Cayo Costa, Florida, and brought high winds, storm surges, and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Sean Rayford/Getty Images) (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Hurricane Ian floods parts of Central Florida
Hurricane Ian floods parts of Central Florida
Hurricane Ian floods parts of Central Florida
Hurricane Ian floods parts of Central Florida
Hurricane Ian floods parts of Central Florida
Hurricane Ian floods parts of Central Florida
Hurricane Ian floods parts of Central Florida
Hurricane Ian floods parts of Central Florida
Hurricane Ian floods parts of Central Florida
Hurricane Ian floods parts of Central Florida
Bull Creek Fish Camp restaurant Flagler County officials said the restaurant suffered extensive damage in 2022 from Hurricanes Ian and Nicole. (Flagler County Government)
Orlando City Council approves funds to help those battling homeless after Hurricane Ian
Hurricane Ian insured losses near $12.6 billion in Florida
Astor flooding It's been nearly a month since the St. Johns River reached historic levels because of Hurricane Ian, but some people living in Lake County are still dealing with issues. (WFTV.com News Staff)
Hurricane Ian’s damage to Florida agriculture as high as $1.8 billion
Hurricane Ian historic flooding Hurricane Ian historic flooding (wftv.com)
Flooding at Good Samaritan Village after Hurricane Ian
Flooding at Good Samaritan Village after Hurricane Ian
Flooding at Good Samaritan Village after Hurricane Ian
Flooding at Good Samaritan Village after Hurricane Ian
Flooding at Good Samaritan Village after Hurricane Ian
Flooding at Good Samaritan Village after Hurricane Ian
Flooding at Good Samaritan Village after Hurricane Ian
Flooding at Good Samaritan Village after Hurricane Ian
Good Samaritan Village Osceola County leaders are expected to talk about the fate of the Good Samaritan Village after it flooded again during Hurricane Ian. (WFTV.com News Staff)
Osceola County works to clear storm debris from Hurricane Ian
After Hurricane Ian, Florida citrus and wider agriculture struggle
Lake Monroe floodwaters Channel 9 witnessed a contractor on Friday pumping Hurricane Ian floodwater contaminated with sewage directly into Lake Monroe in Sanford. (WFTV.com News Staff)
Rouse Road flooding Many of the people who evacuated from Central Florida nursing homes and assisted living facilities during Hurricane Ian haven't returned home. (WFTV.com News Staff)
Assisted living facility flooding Many of the people who evacuated from Central Florida nursing homes and assisted living facilities during Hurricane Ian haven’t returned home. (WFTV.com News Staff)
Hurricane Ian beach erosion
OCTOBER 04 Destruction left behind in the wake of Hurricane Ian is shown October 04, 2022 in Fort Myers Beach, Florida. Southwest Florida suffered severe damage during the Category 4 hurricane which caused extensive damage to communities along the state's coast. (Win McNamee/Getty Images)
Mims flooding Mims flooding (wftv.com)
Osceola County flooding Lake Toho and East Lake Toho are expected to crest on Friday, more than a week after Hurricane Ian dumped over a foot of rain in Central Florida. (WFTV.com News Staff)
Hurricane Ian housing crisis
Daytona Beach woman loses 30 years' worth of possessions from Ian flooding (WFTV/WFTV)
Hurricane Ian recovery Hurricane Ian recovery (wftv.com)
Hurricane Ian insurance claims
Officials warn scams are following Hurricane Ian
Hurricane Ian: Biden to visit storm-ravaged southwest Florida on Wednesday In this aerial view, a FDOT crew works on repairing the road that goes to Pine Island on October 4, 2022, in Matlacha, Florida. The original road was made unpassable after Hurricane Ian passed through the area and washed out sections of the road. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Photos: Days after Hurricane Ian, inland Florida still reeling from floods People ride on an airboat along Peace River in the wake of Hurricane Ian on October 4, 2022, in Arcadia, Florida. Fifty miles inland, and nearly a week after Hurricane Ian made landfall on the Gulf Coast of Florida, the record-breaking floodwaters in the area are receding to reveal the full effects of the storm. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Photos: Days after Hurricane Ian, inland Florida still reeling from floods An ice and water machine sits in floodwaters in the wake of Hurricane Ian at the Peace River Campground on October 4, 2022, in Arcadia, Florida. Fifty miles inland, and nearly a week after Hurricane Ian made landfall on the Gulf Coast of Florida, the record-breaking floodwaters in the area are receding to reveal the full effects of the storm. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Photos: Days after Hurricane Ian, inland Florida still reeling from floods Utility trucks line up at a road block due to flooding from the Peace River in the wake of Hurricane Ian on October 4, 2022, in Arcadia, Florida. Fifty miles inland, and nearly a week after Hurricane Ian made landfall on the Gulf Coast of Florida, the record-breaking floodwaters in the area are receding to reveal the full effects of the storm. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Photos: Days after Hurricane Ian, inland Florida still reeling from floods An Okeechobee County sheriff's deputy watches a tractor-trailer drive down a flooded street to reach a community cutoff of by floodwaters from the Peace River in the wake of Hurricane Ian on October 4, 2022, in Arcadia, Florida. Fifty miles inland, and nearly a week after Hurricane Ian made landfall on the Gulf Coast of Florida, the record-breaking floodwaters in the area are receding to reveal the full effects of the storm. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Photos: Days after Hurricane Ian, inland Florida still reeling from floods A Peace River campground is shown flooded in the wake of Hurricane Ian on October 4, 2022, in Arcadia, Florida. Fifty miles inland, and nearly a week after Hurricane Ian made landfall on the Gulf Coast of Florida, the record-breaking floodwaters in the area are receding to reveal the full effects of the storm. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Photos: Days after Hurricane Ian, inland Florida still reeling from floods National Guardsmen move cases of water near a flooded road in the wake of Hurricane Ian near the Peace River on October 4, 2022, in Arcadia, Florida. Fifty miles inland, and nearly a week after Hurricane Ian made landfall on the Gulf Coast of Florida, the record-breaking floodwaters in the area are receding to reveal the full effects of the storm. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Photos: Days after Hurricane Ian, inland Florida still reeling from floods People walk along a road closed to vehicle traffic due to flooding from the Peace River in the wake of Hurricane Ian on October 4, 2022, in Arcadia, Florida. Fifty miles inland, and nearly a week after Hurricane Ian made landfall on the Gulf Coast of Florida, the record-breaking floodwaters in the area are receding to reveal the full effects of the storm. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Photos: Days after Hurricane Ian, inland Florida still reeling from floods Travel trailers are inundated by floodwaters at the Peace River Campground on October 4, 2022, in Arcadia, Florida. Fifty miles inland, and nearly a week after Hurricane Ian made landfall on the Gulf Coast of Florida, the record-breaking floodwaters in the area are receding to reveal the full effects of the storm. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Photos: Days after Hurricane Ian, inland Florida still reeling from floods National Guardsmen transport meals ready-to-eat to a community cut off by flooding in the wake of Hurricane Ian near the Peace River on October 4, 2022, in Arcadia, Florida. Fifty miles inland, and nearly a week after Hurricane Ian made landfall on the Gulf Coast of Florida, the record-breaking floodwaters in the area are receding to reveal the full effects of the storm. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Photos: Days after Hurricane Ian, inland Florida still reeling from floods Mack Martin walks along train tracks surrounded by floodwaters at the Peace River on October 4, 2022, in Arcadia, Florida. Fifty miles inland, and nearly a week after Hurricane Ian made landfall on the Gulf Coast of Florida, the record-breaking floodwaters in the area are receding to reveal the full effects of the storm. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Hurricane Ian could lead to evictions Evictions loom in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian.
Kove Estates Hurricane Ian damage
Fort Myers damage Channel 9 crews headed to Fort Myers to survey the damage caused by Hurricane Ian. (WFTV.com News Staff)
Fort Myers damage Channel 9 crews headed to Fort Myers to survey the damage caused by Hurricane Ian. (WFTV.com News Staff)
Fort Myers damage Channel 9 crews headed to Fort Myers to survey the damage caused by Hurricane Ian. (WFTV.com News Staff)
Fort Myers damage Channel 9 crews headed to Fort Myers to survey the damage caused by Hurricane Ian. (WFTV.com News Staff)
Fort Myers damage Channel 9 crews headed to Fort Myers to survey the damage caused by Hurricane Ian. (WFTV.com News Staff)
Fort Myers damage Channel 9 crews headed to Fort Myers to survey the damage caused by Hurricane Ian. (WFTV.com News Staff)
Fort Myers damage Channel 9 crews headed to Fort Myers to survey the damage caused by Hurricane Ian. (WFTV.com News Staff)
Fort Myers damage Channel 9 crews headed to Fort Myers to survey the damage caused by Hurricane Ian. (WFTV.com News Staff)
Fort Myers damage Channel 9 crews headed to Fort Myers to survey the damage caused by Hurricane Ian. (WFTV.com News Staff)
Hurricane Ian death toll continues to climb in Florida
Geneva flooding Geneva residents voice frustration over Seminole County’s response to Hurricane Ian. (WFTV.com News Staff)
Harry P. Leu Gardens Leu Gardens remains closed due to damage sustained from Hurricane Ian. (Harry P. Leu Gardens)
Hurricane Ian shakes SW Florida’s faith but can’t destroy it
Geneva flooding Geneva in Seminole County has been impacted by Hurricane Ian. (Nick Papantonis)
Hurricane Ian damage Hurricane Ian damage in Southwest Florida. (wftv.com)
Lake County flooding Flooding in Astor following Hurricane Ian. (wftv.com)
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