City of Bradenton estimates over $41M in damages from Hurricane Helene

Video above: Gov. DeSantis speaks in Bradenton to discuss Helene recovery efforts

BRADENTON, Fla. (WFLA) — Bradenton officials estimated Hurricane Helene caused over $41 million in damages in the city.

Preliminary estimates point to over $39 million in damages for residential areas and over $1.7 million for commercial properties.

Nearly 300 residential properties suffered “major” damage, nearly 200 sustained “minor” damage and over 100 were “affected,” according to Bradenton officials. Six commercial properties experienced “major” damage, 24 suffered “minor” damage and seven were “affected.”

Residents are asked to sort their storm debris into categories for proper disposal. Crews will prioritize areas with the most concentrated and unsafe debris, officials said.

Manatee County’s drinking water is safe to consume after Helene’s surge breached the impoundment dam of the Braden River, but may have a slightly salty taste as crews work to fix the water quality. Residents can pick up bottled drinking water at the Bradenton auditorium, located at 100 10th Street West, until 7 p.m. on Wednesday.

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