Florida Races to Rebuild After Helene: Search and Rescue Efforts Continue

Photo byState of Florida/Facebook

Florida is making progress in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, but thousands remain without power as state and federal agencies ramp up rescue and restoration efforts.

Power Restorations Continue as Search and Rescue Operations Ramp Up

Governor Ron DeSantis joined FEMA Administrator Deanna Criswell and Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Director Kevin Guthrie in Dekle Beach to provide critical updates on Florida’s ongoing response and recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. As of this morning, more than 457,000 Floridians remain without power, although state teams have already restored service to nearly 2 million accounts.

The hurricane, which hit Florida's Big Bend region and Gulf Coast, left a path of destruction in its wake. Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-209 on September 24, declaring a state of emergency for 61 counties. Crews continue to work around the clock to restore power, clear roads, and assist impacted residents.

Countys with most road closedPhoto byState of Florida

Search and Rescue Efforts Intensify Across the State

With Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) teams deployed, more than 560 survivors have been contacted and 43 residents rescued in the aftermath of the storm. The Florida National Guard (FLNG) has mobilized 3,900 soldiers and airmen to support rescue efforts, including the use of rotary-wing aircraft for aerial searches.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has also played a critical role, rescuing 18 people and six pets in flood-stricken areas like Pasco and Charlotte counties. FDEM and local officials continue coordinating disaster recovery missions, with a particular focus on providing medical assistance and reestablishing communication systems.

Major Roadways Reopened as Infrastructure Repairs Continue

Florida's roadways were significantly impacted by the storm, with over 12,000 miles of roadway affected. However, key highways such as Interstate 10 and Howard Frankland Bridge have reopened, thanks to rapid debris removal efforts from Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) teams. The agency has deployed over 800 crews across the state, focusing on clearing flooded and debris-filled roads.

FDOT Secretary Jared Perdue emphasized the agency’s ongoing commitment to quickly restore critical infrastructure: "FDOT is working with utility response crews to ensure swift road and power restoration." While progress has been made, some sections of State Road 789 in Sarasota and Manatee counties remain inaccessible due to severe storm damage.

Health and Human Services Respond to Immediate Needs

The Florida Department of Health (DOH) has activated its emergency response vehicles in impacted counties and opened special needs shelters for vulnerable residents. Meanwhile, DCF’s Hope Florida initiative has deployed resources to assist affected Floridians, distributing essential supplies such as food, water, and baby items.

Governor DeSantis urged residents to remain vigilant and heed the advice of local authorities: "We are committed to restoring power, reopening roads, and getting Florida back on its feet. But it’s critical that everyone stays safe and informed as recovery efforts continue."

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