ICYMI: Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response and Recovery Efforts for Hurricane Milton

10/14/2024

ICYMI: Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on State Response and Recovery Efforts for Hurricane Milton

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.-Today, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie and Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Secretary Jared Perdue at SeaPort Manatee in Palmetto to provide updates on Hurricane Milton recovery efforts.

Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the award of $9.5 million to SeaPort Manatee to jumpstart its recovery and help repair damaged infrastructure following significant damage caused by Hurricane Milton. This investment includes $5.5 million for emergency berth repairs and dredging in state waters, $3.5 million for immediate security needs and access control and $500,000 to support planning activities for fortifying port infrastructure.

In addition to this funding, Governor DeSantis directed several state agencies to step in and assist the port to expedite recovery efforts. FDOT will provide subject matter experts and skilled workers, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will expedite all permits for the immediate rebuild of port infrastructure, and FDEM will provide support in navigating the FEMA award process. The Florida National Guard will also provide personnel to reestablish perimeter security and assist in repairing the port fence. To read more, click here.

As of 6 PM, approximately 292,763 Floridians are without power. The State of Florida has restored 3,877,834 accounts.

Federal Disaster Relief

Governor DeSantis announced that Florida secured approval of a major disaster declaration for Hurricane Milton from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The declaration includes Individual Assistance and Public Assistance (Categories A and B). Individual Assistance, which is assistance to residents and households, is available for Brevard, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, DeSoto, Duval, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Marion, Martin, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Sumter and Volusia Counties and the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida. Public Assistance, which is available for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities, is available for Brevard, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, DeSoto, Duval, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Marion, Martin, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Sumter and Volusia Counties and the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance.

The State Assistance Information Line is now open and accepting calls 24/7 with English, Spanish and Haitian-Creole speakers available at 1-800-342-3557. Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-215, amending EO 24-214 and declaring a state of emergency for 51 counties.

To learn more about navigating hurricane season, residents can visit FloridaDisaster.org/Guide. For updates on county resources available visit FloridaDisaster.org/Counties for a list of all 67 county emergency management contacts.

State Response and Recovery Efforts

• The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) has activated the State Emergency Operations Center to Level 1 since Tuesday, September 24, for Hurricane Helene, and is at a Level 1 for Hurricane Milton, leading coordination efforts for the State Emergency Response Team.
• The State Emergency Response Team engaged in over 2,600 missions to assist counties in their preparations and immediate response for Hurricane Milton. These missions accomplish vital tasks like staging resources to deploy for immediate response, protecting critical infrastructure facilities like hospitals and utility stations, and coordinating personnel statewide.
• Since landfall, nearly 1,800 individuals and 225 animals have been rescued by Urban Search and Rescue Teams and the Florida National Guard.
• FDEM is coordinating the opening of Points of Distribution (PODs) in impacted areas. Over 20 PODs are open in impacted counties. To find locations and hours of operation, visit FloridaDisaster.org/Updates.
• FDEM has more than 770,000 gallons of diesel and nearly 400,000 gallons of emergency fuels on-hand, with 335,000 gallons of diesel and 467,000 gallons of gas deployed in the field supporting operations.
• Public fuel distribution sites will be open tomorrow, Tuesday October 15th, from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.:
• • Tropicana Rail Yard 1706 9th St E Bradenton, FL 34208
  • Plant City Stadium 1810 S Park Rd. Plant City, FL 33563
  • Central Lot - Parking Lot 800 1st Ave S. St. Petersburg, FL 33701
  • Charlotte Sports Park 2300 El Jobean Port Charlotte, FL 33948
  • St. Pete College Tarpon Springs 600 E Klosterman Rd Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
  • East Bay Raceway 6311 Burts Rd Tampa, FL 33619
  • Bradenton Motorsports Park 21000 E. State Road 64 Bradenton Fl, 34212
  • Gulf View Mall 9409 US-19 Port Richey, FL 34668
  • Wiregrass Mall 28211 Paseo Drive Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 Largo Mary Grizzle State Office
  • 11351 Ulmerton Rd Largo, FL 33778
• All open fuel sites: FloridaDisaster.org/Updates.
• The State of Florida partnered with Lyft to provide residents in mandatory evacuation zonesfree rides returning home from local shelters.
• Lyft has activated the Lyft Up Disaster Response Program to provide free and discounted rides to help those in affected areas travel to and from designated shelters with critical resources. Riders can use code MILTONRELIEF24 for two rides up to $25 to and from state-approved shelters.
• Additionally, residents can find open shelters in their area by visiting FloridaDisaster.org/shelters.
• The Florida State Fire Marshal's Office's US&R teams have successfully rescued 349 civilians, 47 pets and provided assistance to 164 others.
• The Florida State Guard has completed over 300 rescues in the wake of Hurricane Milton. Florida State Guard teams continue debris clean up in Pinellas County and plan to remain on mission as needed with skid steers and heavy equipment to assist the Florida Department of Transportation and the Florida National Guard with continued debris clean up from roadways.
• Crisis Response Battalion teams continue assistance at the SLRC supporting distribution of critical supplies.
• The Florida State Guard continues to monitor floodwaters in Pasco County and is on standby, with amphibious vehicles and high-water UTVs, for evacuation and search and rescue operations.
• The Aviation Response Battalion continues providing aerial reconnaissance in support of ongoing missions.
• During the last 24 hours, the Crisis Response Battalion opened a point of distribution (POD) at 36722 Co Rd 52 in Dade City, providing supplies to 112 vehicles.
• The Maritime Response Squadron responded to a request for route clearance at the VA Clinic in Temple Terrace, enabling patients to access services.
• The Florida National Guard (FLNG) has activated nearly 6,000 service members for Hurricane Milton response operations and is expected to grow to nearly 7,300 with EMACs from other states for Hurricane Milton preparedness operations.
• FLNG is providing immediate response in affected areas with liaison officers, search and rescue, humanitarian assistance, route clearing, ground and air reconnaissance, protection of critical infrastructure, flood mitigation and high wheeled vehicle support with state and local officials.
• FLNG has four rotary wing aircraft, approximately 500 high-wheeled tactical vehicles, including approximately 200 high-wheeled tactical vehicles and over a dozen boats prepared to provide search and response and damage assessment support post-storm.
• Over 100 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) officers rapidly deployed high-water vehicles and all other storm response resources to areas of Florida impacted by Hurricane Milton to assist Floridians in need.
• As a result of Hurricane Milton, FWC officers have worked with partner first responder agencies to rescue 993 individuals, 55 pets, and performed 910 welfare checks. They also cleared trees, vessels, and debris from numerous roads, homes, and driveways and distributed water and food.
• FWC officers responded with:
• • 47 boats including airboats and shallow draft boats
  • ATVs/Side-by-sides
  • 132 high-water capable four-wheel drive vehicles
  • 29 high-water capable swamp buggies and UTVs
  • 3 SOG support trailers
  • 4 aerial surveillance drones
  • Self-sustainment equipment, including BERG container units, hygiene trailers, generators and mobile command posts
  • Fuel trucks
  • 1 Skid Steer
• FWC officers are providing enhanced vessel patrols along area rivers to ensure public safety due to riverine flooding.
• FWC Captive Wildlife Investigators contacted contacting captive wildlife facilities and conducted site visits in storm impacted areas. There have been no reported escapes.
• The Florida Department of Law Enforcement's (FDLE) mutual aid team is managing 56 active law enforcement missions with more than 100 completed. The missions include:
• • Security for fuel depots
  • Fuel escorts
  • Search and rescue
• FDLE aviation assets are conducting overwatch missions for patrol officers in impacted areas.
• Nearly 600 law enforcement officers are assigned to missions related to Hurricane Milton.
• The Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs' (FDVA) State Veterans' Service Officers are available to take your call at (727) 319-7440 or via email at [email protected].
• The VISN 8 Clinical Contact Center is operational 24/7/365 for virtual care and tele-emergency care to support Florida Veterans enrolled for VA Health Care. Call 1-877-741-3400.
• All youth and staff in the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) facilities are accounted for and safe. DJJ continues to assess its facilities for damage and most facilities have had minimal storm impacts.

Health and Human Services

• The Florida Department of Health (DOH) deployed nearly 400 emergency response vehicles (e.g., ambulances, ambulance buses, paratransit vehicles) to support emergency evacuations and patient transport as needed.
• DOH is supporting 11 special needs shelters, which are accepting clients, located in the following counties: Collier (1), Hillsborough (3), Manatee (1), Pasco (1), Pinellas (2), Polk (1), Sarasota (1), and Volusia (1).
• DOH and the Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) sent information regarding early prescription refills permitted under Executive Order 24-215. This information was sent to the public, health insurers, managed care organizations, pharmacy benefit managers, pharmacy chains and health care providers.
• The State Surgeon General signed Emergency Order 24-003, which:
• • Waives competitive procurement requirements in order to procure commodities, goods, and
  • services expeditiously in response to the emergency.
  • Permits emergency medical transportation services licensed in other U.S. states, territories, and/or districts to operate in Florida in response to the emergency.
  • Permits paramedics, emergency medical technicians, and their medical directors licensed in other U.S. states, territories, or districts to practice in Florida in response to the emergency without penalty.
  • Permits pharmacies and prescription department managers to operate in multiple or mobile locations.
• There are 134 active Boil Water Notices as a result of Hurricane Milton. A comprehensive statewide list of notices for residents to access online can be found here:
• • Charlotte (5), Citrus (5), Collier (1), Flagler (1), Hardee (1), Hernando (4), Highlands (4), Hillsborough (16), Lake (26), Lee (6), Levy (1), Manatee (2), Marion (13), Okeechobee (1), Orange (5), Osceola (4), Pasco (12), Pinellas (3), Polk (8), Putnam (2), Sarasota (2), Seminole (1), St. Lucie (1), Sumter (5), and Volusia (6).
• There have been seven (7) rescinded Boil Water Notice in the following counties:
• • Hillsborough (1), Marion (2), Putnam (2), Sarasota (1), St. Lucie (1).
• The State Surgeon General signed Emergency Order 24-004, which:
• • Permits paramedics, emergency medical technicians, and their medical directors, physicians and physician assistants, osteopathic physicians and physician assistants, advanced practice registered nurses, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, certified nursing assistants, mental health counselors, clinical social workers and marriage and family therapists licensed in other U.S. states, territories, or districts to practice in Florida in response to the emergency without penalty.
  • Waives telehealth registration requirements for physicians and physician assistants, osteopathic physicians and physician assistants, advanced practice registered nurses, mental health counselors, clinical social workers, and marriage and family therapists.
• The Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) has initiated an event in the Health Facility Reporting System (HFRS). Health care providers have been requested to provide information on census, available beds, evacuation status, accepting evacuees and generator needs from counties declared under EO-24-114. This information allows AHCA to assist health care providers in transferring patients if needed and ensure that health care providers in impacted areas have the necessary resources and adequate power.
• • 198 health care facilities have reported evacuations. This includes:
  • 20 adult family care homes
  • 113 assisted living facilities
  • 3 crisis stabilization and short term RFTs
  • 3 hospices
  • 8 hospitals
  • 3 hospitals ED
  • 3 intermediate care facilities for the developmentally disabled
  • 25 nursing homes
  • 4 residential treatment centers for children and adolescents
  • 11 residential treatment facilities
  • 5 Transitional living facilities
• As of today, there are 184 health care facilities with loss of power across the state. This includes:
• • 14 adult family care homes
  • 116 assisted living facilities
  • 7 crisis stabilization and short term RFTs
  • 2 hospices
  • 3 hospitals
  • 2 hospitals ED
  • 3 intermediate care facility for the developmentally disabled
  • 17 nursing homes
  • 2 residential treatment centers for children and adolescents
  • 6 residential treatment facilities
  • 6 Transitional living facilities
• AHCA is conducting daily calls with the Florida Hospital Association and Florida Health Care Association.
• The Agency has waived all prior authorization requirements for critical Medicaid services beginning October 7, 2024, until further notice.
• Agency surveyors have completed 544 post storm assessment visits to ensure health care facilities in impacted areas are able to safely care for residents.
• Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) launched the Agriculture and Aquaculture Producers Natural Disaster Recovery Loan Program for Florida farmers, ranchers, and growers impacted by Hurricane Milton to apply for interest-free loans. Loans can be used by eligible agriculture and aquaculture producers to restore, repair, or replace essential physical property - including fences, equipment, greenhouses, and other buildings - or to remove vegetative debris.
• FDACS is working with Florida's ports and fuel industry partners to ensure adequate fuel supplies are available, and with Florida's agricultural partners so producers have adequate resources.
• A total of 42 generators were deployed to commercial agricultural facilities to prevent disruption to food and agricultural critical infrastructure.
• Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson has approved an emergency order temporarily suspending the intrastate movement requirements for the transportation of animals and livestock fleeing Hurricane Milton. In addition, the following states have waived their interstate import requirements for Florida pets, horses and livestock leaving the state: Alabama, Georgia (does not include livestock), Mississippi, and North Carolina.
• Commissioner Wilton Simpson has issued an emergency order suspending requirements related to the distribution, delivery, storage, and sale of liquid fuels - such as gasoline and diesel - to assist with efforts to ensure adequate distribution and supply of fuel.
• Commissioner Wilton Simpson has issued an emergency rule to aid the distribution of liquefied petroleum gas to disaster response and recovery operations.
• Floridians are encouraged to call 1-800-HELP-FLA to report water-contaminated fuel issues to the department.
• As of Oct. 14, inspectors completed preliminary inspections of 3,055 of an estimated 4,538 potentially impacted retail fuel stations. Of the 3,055 facilities, 1,985 are open and operating.
• • Additionally, as of Oct. 14, inspectors have completed 7,777 assessments of food establishments in impacted regions. 6,894 facilities are open for business.
• Agricultural partners can request critical assistance for livestock and animals in critical need, please complete this form and send it to [email protected], or call 863-993-5460.
• Food safety inspectors are responding to impacted areas to conduct damage assessments and ensure the safe operation of over 36,000 potentially impacted food establishments.
• UF/IFAS is studying the agricultural losses and damages resulting from Hurricane Helene. Producers can share information about impacts experienced at your farm, ranch, or aquaculture operation here.
• The Department of Elder Affairs (DOEA) continues to contact all Area Agencies on Aging partners to receive updates. Post-storm call-downs to clients are ongoing and there are currently no unmet needs.
• The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) continues its recovery efforts with post Hurricane wellness checks to clients, families, and Group Homes in affected areas verifying status and resolving immediate need requests. .
• APD leadership teams have sourced and compiled sensory kits and delivered over 135 kits to families in need at Hope Florida distribution sites, group homes, and partners in counties affected by Hurricane Milton.
• The Department of Children and Families (DCF) is in the process of contacting all foster families, group homes, and providers to assess for unmet needs after the storm. So far DCF has contacted families and group homes serving over 22,200 individuals and over 9,900 providers in impacted areas to ensure all children and families served are safe and to determine needs.
• DCF has delivered and served over 371,000 meals, 469,000 bottles of water and other drinks, 42,000 snacks, and 11,000 boxes of food to 22 counties, and has established 30 field kitchens.
• DCF is working with Mercy Chefs and Operation BBQ to serve hot meals throughout the Tampa Bay area and Manatee County.
• Through Emergency Support Function 6 - Mass Care, DCF is supporting 8 shelters in impacted areas.
• The Hope Bus has been stationed in Charlotte, Hillsborough, Lee, Pinellas, and Sarasota counties, and since the storm made landfall, we have served over 15,900 individuals. In addition, Hope Navigators have been deployed to Saint Lucie, Sarasota, Charlotte, Manatee, Indian River, and Martin counties to go into neighborhoods directly impacted by the storm and offered resources and support to over 2,900 individuals. DCF has deployed Hope Navigators to support individuals and families in shelters.
• Current SNAP recipients who lost food due to Hurricane Milton can apply for food replacement. To learn more, visit myflfamilies.com/milton
• The Department of Children and Families has been approved to allow the purchase of hot foods with SNAP EBT benefits in Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota, and Volusia counties to assist individuals affected by Hurricane Milton. This allowance is available at participating retailers in the eligible counties until November 15, 2024. To learn more, visit myflfamilies.com/milton
• All State Mental Health Treatment Facilities and Crisis Stabilization Units are fully operational.
• The Hope Line is available to assist those in need of resources or other assistance after the storm. It is now available 24/7 for the next two-plus weeks at 833-GET-HOPE.
• Activate Hope has been deployed to help connect Floridians impacted by the storm with needed resources like food, supplies, home repairs, and more. Serving as the emergency response component of the Hope Florida initiative, Activate Hope connects the private sector, nonprofits, and government to help Floridians get back on their feet following a natural disaster. Fill out the form here to request help.

Infrastructure, Roads and State Closures

• The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has over 2,000 FDOT team members working directly on storm response. 
• FDOT established a field crew base camp in Seffner to be centrally located for emergency response and recovery efforts.
• FDOT has shifted efforts towards debris pickup on state roads. Currently, crews have picked up over 7,200 cubic yards of debris.
• • Other state DOTs have sent crews to assist with debris pickup missions. Alabama DOT has sent 18 team members, Tennessee DOT is sending 30 team members, and FDOT has been in contact with Louisiana DOT.
• FDOT will perform debris pickup within fiscally constrained counties. 
• 98% of traffic signals in the impacted area are operational. Crews continue to deploy generators where needed statewide to temporarily restore power to locations that are non-operational.
• Toll suspensions on facilities in West Florida and Central Florida have been extended. Specific details and facilities can be found here.
• FDOT continues to monitor water levels at low-lying bridges near major river crossings. 
• Cut and Toss Operations on state-owned facilities are complete, except for inaccessible areas or roadways with hazards. 486 crew members cleared over 12,000 miles of roadway.
• FDOT completed bridge inspections on all accessible state-owned and locally-owned bridges. Over 150 Bridge Inspectors reviewed and cleared over 2,400 bridges across the impacted areas.
• FDOT completed the removal of debris on barrier islands in Pinellas and Manatee Counties ahead of Hurricane Milton with the Florida National Guard, Florida State Guard, Florida Highway Patrol, Florida Department of Agriculture, amongst others. In total, over 3,000 truckloads removed nearly 55,000 cubic yards of debris.
• FDOT has lifted weight restrictions and is allowing bypass of weigh stations for emergency response vehicles, including utility vehicles staging for rapid response. 
• • FDOT has coordinated efforts with Georgia and Alabama to allow a bypass of weigh stations for emergency response and supply vehicles.
• For current road and bridge closures and traffic conditions, please download the FL511 app or visit FL511.com.
• Transportation Modes:
• • Florida's Seaports, Airports, Rail, Transit, and Spaceports made swift progress in recovery efforts with most services and operations now resumed.
  • Please check with your service providers directly regarding potential service impacts, such as flight schedules, passenger rail service, and transit schedules.
• Seaports:
• • Florida Seaports Fuel Supplies are being closely monitored and plans are in place for maintaining adequate supply levels across the state as we work to recover from the storm. 
• Airports:
• • Commercial airports that remain closed: Sarasota/Bradenton International
• State-Owned Road & Bridge Closures (As of 2:00 p.m., 10/14/24) State road & bridge closures listed below. For real-time updates, Check FL511.com. *Please note some access may be restricted to residents only.
• Flagler County
• • Flooding on ramp from N State St to SR-100. All lanes closed.
• Indian River County
• • Major Road Damage on CR-512 / Fellsmere Road Both Directions 0.71 Mi Beyond 79th Street. All lanes closed.
• Manatee County
• • Flooding on Verna Bethany Rd Both Directions 0.48 Mi South of Sr-64 E. All lanes closed.
• Pinellas County
• • Emergency vehicles on I-275 South, ramp to Mile Marker 13, Skyway North Rest Area. Off-ramp closed.
  • Emergency vehicles on I-275 North, ramp to Mile Marker 13, Skyway North Rest Area. Off-ramp closed.
• Volusia County
• • Flooding on I-4 West, before MM 129/US-92. On-ramp closed.
  • Flooding on I-4 East, before MM 111/Saxon Blvd. Ramp closed.
  • Major Road Damage on S Volusia Ave Southbound at Enterprise Rd. All lanes closed.
  • Emergency road construction on SR-472 East, at N Kentucky Ave. Right lane blocked.
• The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is actively working to provide any needed assistance to drinking water, wastewater and hazardous waste facilities. Outreach to these facilities to determine operational status is ongoing.
• DEP's online portal WaterTracker is live for drinking and wastewater facilities to report their operational status, and staff have begun outreach to facilities. DEP is working with Florida's Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network (FlaWARN), the Florida Rural Water Association and other response agencies to dispatch generators, fuel and pump trucks and other resources to assist drinking and wastewater facilities. DEP has verified the operational status of 92% of water and wastewater systems in the affected counties.
• DEP has authorized 160 Disaster Debris Management Sites (DDMS) for Hurricane Helene and an additional 236 for Hurricane Milton. These sites are a critical component of expediting clean-up and reducing environmental and public health impacts post-storm. DEP solid waste field staff, supported by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Landfill Strike Teams, are on the ground in affected counties providing technical assistance at to DDMS's operating as a result of these storms.
• For counties and local governments in need of additional debris disposal locations, DEP has approved all pending DDMS site activation requests and DEP stands ready to approve the activation of any additional pre-authorized or new DDMSs that may be needed.
• DEP's Hazardous Area Response Team, is working in conjunction with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the U.S. Coast Guard, are identifying oil spills and hazardous material releases in coastal and inland waterways.
• Florida's water management districts are actively engaging local governments and drainage operators throughout the state to support flood control efforts, including deploying temporary pumps to alleviate localized flooding.
• • The St. Johns River Water Management has deployed two temporary pumps to HCA Florida Lake Monroe Hospital.
  • The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) has deployed one temporary pump in Pasco County.
  • SWFWMD has activated the Tampa Bypass Canal System to help protect the cities of Temple Terrace and Tampa from river flooding. More than 4 million gallons a minute are being moved through this system. This action stops all or part of the flow of the Hillsborough River before it reaches the cities of Temple Terrace and Tampa and stores it in the Hillsborough Flood Detention Area. The stored water can then be safely moved down to McKay Bay using the Tampa Bypass Canal. The LHFDA water level is down seven inches from the peak and is dropping.
  • The South Florida Water Management District has deployed two temporary pumps to the upper Kissimmee Chain of Lakes to move more water south and provide relief to communities experiencing flooding.
• DEP is coordinating post-storm beach surveys to determine impacts to shorelines and erosion, as well as inspecting damage to beach projects in impacted counties along both coasts.
• • Beach teams are performing assessments along the West Coast by collecting aerial oblique videography (AOV) Staff are working to begin desktop assessments to determine what areas of the coast need immediate attention.
  • On the East Coast, assessment teams are finishing up. So far, 113 windshield survey reports have been completed in Duval, Flagler, Nassau, St. Johns, Volusia, Brevard and Indian River counties.
• 10 Florida State Parks strike teams have been assembled to assist with assessment and recovery efforts at impacted state parks. Six teams are on the ground today, and other teams and equipment will be deployed as conditions allow and needs are identified.
• 101 state parks have reopened following Hurricane Milton. DEP published a storm updates webpage to keep state park visitors updated of closures: FloridaStateParks.org/StormUpdates. Visitors with existing camping and cabin reservations at closed parks have been notified of their reservation status.
• DEP's Emergency Final Order removes barriers for expediting necessary repair, replacement and restoration of structures, including coastal structures, equipment, surface water management systems, works and other systems that may be damaged by the storm.
• The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) have deployed high-water rescue vehicles to areas impacted by Hurricane Milton.
• FHP Unmanned Aerial Systems Teams are conducting surveys of bridges and hospitals for damage.
• 83 FHP QRF Members mobilized from Camp Blanding to the southwest Florida area to assist with road clearing and emergency relief efforts.
• FHP is escorting fuel trucks to areas critically low on fuel. FHP is escorting utility vehicles to expedite power and water restoration efforts.
• FHP is conducting traffic control and site security at Hope Florida distribution sites in Lee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Pinellas and Hillsborough.
• FHP is conducting traffic control at Port Tampa Bay to ensure fuel trucks reach their destination without delay.
• FHP is providing security at fueling locations including public fuel sites in Bradenton, St. Petersburg, and Plant City.
• FHP's fleet of 13 skid steers is deployed in affected areas to clear debris, open roadways, and restore order.
• FHP has deployed chainsaw cut teams to remove fallen trees from residences.
• The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) deployed Florida Licensing on Wheels (FLOW) mobiles to Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties to provide mobile driver license and vehicle registration services to those impacted by the storm.
• The Florida Department of Education (DOE) is in contact with all school districts following Hurricane Milton and is working with FDEM to address critical needs. Of the 50 traditional school districts that were closed for Hurricane Milton, DOE announced that 43 school districts have reopened on Monday, October 14. For more information on school districts, state colleges, and university reopenings, visit https://www.fldoe.org/storminfo.
• The Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) is posting storm-related updates to www.fdc.myflorida.com/weather-updates.

Resources for Employees, Businesses and Consumers

• The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) is coordinating state agency participation at 17 Multi-Agency Resource Centers (MARCs) across the state. MARC locations and hours of operation can be found here.
• DBPR's Division of Regulation teams have performed sweeps to identify and combat unlicensed activity across Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie and Sarasota Counties.
• DBPR's Division of Hotels and Restaurants has shared emergency reopening guidance with 137,000 restaurants and lodging licensees across the state to ensure they are operating safely following the storm.
• DBPR filed Emergency Order 2024-10 to streamline response and remove barriers to recovery efforts for Hurricanes Helene and Milton. In part, the order allows businesses or persons engaging in mold remediation to remove water damaged materials from hurricane related water damaged properties without licensure as a mold remediator.
• DBPR's Emergency Order 2024-08, issued at the direction of Governor DeSantis in response to Hurricane Helene, in part allows food service businesses to operate temporary food kitchens. The order also applies to businesses impacted by Hurricane Milton, and DBPR has encouraged impacted food service businesses to take advantage of this option as the Department works to help them re-open as soon as possible. Food service operators can register their temporary kitchens here.
• The Florida Disaster Contractors Network has been activated to connect homeowners with licensed contractors and suppliers to perform emergency repairs. DBPR encourages Florida's licensed contractors who provide post-storm construction-related services to register with its Florida Disaster Contractors Network at DCNOnline.org.
• Volunteer Florida partner resources:
• • Disaster Legal Hotline is open to assist and refer callers: 833-514-2940
  • 2-1-1 is open and ready to receive calls.
  • Red Cross Hotline is open to assist: 1-800-Red Cross
  • Crisis Cleanup number: 844-965-1386
  • Volunteer opportunities promoted through Volunteer Connect
  • New email for hurricane-related inquiries: [email protected].
• FloridaCommerce is communicating and coordinating with more than 200 private sector partners across the state.
• Governor Ron DeSantis activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, making $50 million available for businesses impacted by Hurricane Milton. Florida small business owners in need of assistance, including sole proprietors, are encouraged to visit www.FloridaJobs.org/EBL to apply for the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program. The program provides short-term, zero-interest loans to small businesses that experienced economic injury or physical damage due to Hurricane Milton. Interested applicants can apply now through December 4, 2024, or until all available funds are expended.
• In record time, FloridaCommerce has approved more than $1.7 million in funding through the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program for small businesses impacted by Hurricane Milton. To date, 44 businesses have been approved to receive these funds to bridge the gap while they wait on other funding, such as insurance, with more applications being approved daily. FloridaCommerce has approved more than $10.2 million to 249 small businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene.
• FloridaCommerce and the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) activated the Business Damage Assessment Survey in response to Hurricane Milton. Business owners can self-report physical and economic damage caused by Hurricane Milton. Survey responses will allow the state to expedite Hurricane Milton recovery efforts by gathering data and assessing the needs of impacted businesses. Businesses can complete the survey online by visiting FloridaDisaster.biz and selecting "Hurricane Milton" from the dropdown menu. More than 1,500 Business Damage Assessment Surveys have been completed.
• FloridaCommerce deployed 45 agency employees into communities across the state providing outreach and support to individuals and businesses, including four small business canvassing strike teams in North Florida, Central Florida and South Florida, and other teams joining the Hope Florida buses and DBPR, DJJ, and APD in Charlotte County, Hillsborough County, Lee County, Manatee County Pinellas County and Sarasota County.
• Florida Housing Finance Corporation (FHFC) has disaster relief resources and information for Floridians in need of housing options and other housing related support. For more information click here. FHFC has also activated FloridaHousingSearch.org to assist hurricane-impacted Floridians in locating an affordable rental property. This free, statewide search platform is being constantly updated to ensure all listings are accurate. Floridians can also call 1-877-428-8844.
• FloridaCommerce continues to work with the Florida Chamber, the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association and other private sector partners to consistently updates business open/close status at FloridaDisaster.biz. FloridaCommerce staff have made more than 1,000 calls to rural and small businesses to help with this effort.
• FloridaCommerce is working with private sector banking partners to ensure that evacuees have access to banks and are able to withdraw cash.
• FloridaCommerce activated the Private Sector Hotline at (850) 815-4925, open daily 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Inquiries may also be emailed to [email protected].
• Briefings will be provided by Emergency Support Functions and private sector partners. For call information email [email protected].
• FloridaCommerce and CareerSource Florida is hosting daily calls with the 21 Local Workforce Development Boards and 38 Community Action Agencies across the state to assist employees and employers after the weather event.
• FloridaCommerce has worked with Walmart, City Furniture, Citrus Springs Industrial Holdings, FloridaMakes, Amazon and TECO to successfully identify and secure sites for debris disposal and additional shelters for evacuees.
• Wawa will be distributing ice and bottled water at various store locations in impacted areas. For more information click here. Wawa stores in Florida provide free coffee and fountain beverages to all
• first responders, including the National Guard in Florida in appreciation for all they are doing to support and serve our communities during hurricane response and recovery efforts.
• Wawa has donated $500,000 to the Florida Disaster Fund to support the state of Florida's private fund established to provide financial assistance to communities as they respond to and recover from times of emergency or disaster.
• The Wawa Community Coffee Truck has been deployed to Sarasota County and is distributing free coffee, water and ice to impacted Floridians.
• Walmart has donated $5,000 in gift cards to HOPE FLORIDA for cleaning supplies, toiletries and water to assist with post-storm deployment in impacted areas.
• Comcast has opened more than 261,000 public Xfinity WiFi hotspots in areas it serves across the state. The free and public hotspots are open for anyone to use, including non-Xfinity customers. For more information visit Finder.wifi.xfinity.com. Comcast is also positioning crews and equipment to immediately respond after the storm, should there be any service interruptions for Comcast Business or Xfinity customers.
• Tesla has available charging stations for those evacuating with electric vehicles available at Tesla.com/findus. The live status and availability of superchargers can also be found in the Tesla app.
• SpaceX has delivered another 400 Starlink kits to the state of Florida to support Hurricane Milton.
• SpaceX has worked with T-Mobile to active Direct to Cell satellites to provide emergency alerts for all cell phones and carriers in affected areas. SpaceX and T-Mobile have enabled basic texting (SMS) via satellite for T-Mobile users in hurricane affected areas.
• The AT&T Weather Operations Center has a team of degreed meteorologists delivering business-specific weather intelligence, analytics, and forecasts. The FirstNet Response Operations Group™ (ROG) - led by a dedicated team of former first responders - is working around the clock to support public safety's emergency communications and has liaisons engaged with local and federal agencies.
• Spectrum announced it will help residents stay connected by offering free, unlimited access to Spectrum Wi-Fi access points in Florida. A map of locations can be viewed at Spectrum Out-of-Home WiFi Map: Get WiFi Access Anywhere.
• VISIT FLORIDA Emergency Accommodation Modules on Expedia and Priceline are available to provide real-time hotel availability and lodging resources for impacted Floridians and visitors.
• Rosen Hotels & Resorts activated its Florida Resident Distress Rates for those in the 51 counties declared as under a state of emergency by Governor Ron DeSantis.
• Scenic Stays Vacation Rentals in Northwest Florida has a 35% discount with promotion code MILTON. Go to myscenicstays.com or call 850-407-2244 to book.
• Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort has extended special offers for Evacuees and First Responders in need of accommodations in the event of an evacuation. Please see the linked pages below for more information.
• • EVACUEES Good for stays through October 31. Book by October 29
  • FIRST RESPONDERS Good for stays through December 31. Book by December 29
• The Florida SBDC Network is coordinating with regional offices and stakeholders to better understand impacts to small businesses and share information about state resources.
• The Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) offers online resources to Floridians who may need help finding information about their financial services provider(s), including state-chartered banks and credit unions, mortgage servicers, and other financial businesses and professionals.
• OIR, in coordination with the Florida Department of Health (DOH), sent information regarding early prescription refills permitted under Executive Order 24-215. This information was sent to the public, health insurers, managed care organizations, pharmacy benefit managers, pharmacy chains, and health care providers. Information can be found here.
• The Department of Revenue (DOR) has the following update: Florida law allows exporters, petroleum carriers, and importers to request a temporary fuel tax license during a disaster or declared state of emergency. Out-of-state applicants are not required to submit a fee, secure bonding, or undergo a background check if they apply for and receive a temporary fuel tax license. Visit the Florida Fuel Tax webpage for more information on Florida's temporary fuel tax licensing program: https://floridarevenue.com/taxes/taxesfees/Pages/fuel.aspx
• The Florida Department of Management Services (DMS) has deployed 206 Starlinks for Hurricane Milton.
• The Florida Department of State (DOS) Division of Elections has been reaching out to Supervisors to assess their needs post storm. The Division is prepared to coordinate communications between county Supervisors of Elections and appropriate disaster agencies, if needed. We have also reached out to United States Postal Service (USPS) regarding concerns about elections information and vote-by-mail ballots during this time. The Florida Department of State will continue to follow up with Supervisors throughout this time as their needs evolve.

For previous updates see below:

10/6/2024 (1)

10/6/2024 (2)

10/7/2024 (1)

10/7/2024 (2)

10/8/2024 (1)

10/8/2024 (2)

10/9/2024 (1)

10/9/2024 (2)

10/10/2024 (1)

10/10/2024 (2)

10/11/2024 (1)

10/11/2024 (2)

10/12/2024 (1)

10/12/2024 (2)

10/13/2024 (1)

10/13/2024 (2)

Follow FDEM on X,Instagram, and Facebook for updates and visit FloridaDisaster.org/Updates for information relating to Hurricane Milton.

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