Know
Cleanup efforts begin across Tampa Bay
Cleanup and recovery efforts have begun in the Tampa Bay area after Hurricane Helene made landfall as a powerful Category 4 storm, causing widespread damage and flooding across Florida’s coast.
Hurricane Helene’s massive wind field, spanning a distance comparable to that between Indianapolis and Washington, D.C., has left a trail of destruction in its wake. The storm has resulted in at least five fatalities in Pinellas County, though the full extent of casualties and damage is still being assessed.
In the immediate aftermath, search and rescue operations have been launched in severely affected areas. Access to many parts of Pinellas County remains restricted as emergency crews work to clear roads.
The I-275 on-ramp at Ulmerton Road remained closed due to flooding Friday morning. Photo: Kenny Morales.
Various organizations are providing assistance to affected residents. The Disaster Legal Hotline (833-514-2940) and the Red Cross Hotline (1-800-Red Cross) are available for those seeking help. The nonprofit Reach St. Pete is collecting supplies to distribute to residents in need. They are also asking for volunteers willing to help or donate.
Meanwhile, communities and area businesses are stepping up to support their neighbors in need.
View this post on Instagram
Rebuilding Together Tampa Bay, a nonprofit that provides no-cost repairs to homeowners, is working to mobilize its teams of staff and volunteers to provide critical relief and response services. Jose Garcia, CEO of Rebuilding Together Tampa Bay, told the Catalyst they are creating cleanup packets that they plan to distribute next week. In the meantime, the nonprofit is focusing on roof repairs to ensure the immediate safety of homeowners.
Garcia said if any volunteers are able and willing to help with roof repairs, they should call the nonprofit at (813) 878-9000 or email info@rttb.org.
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
.
.
Tanji Shelton Balke
September 28, 2024at5:54 am
Thanks for using my pic 😃