breaking News: Fort Myers Beach Struggles to Recover Two Days After Hurricane Milton TNW News Staff Report | Saturday, October 12, 2024 | 10:42 AM CT

Two days after Hurricane Milton made landfall, Fort Myers Beach residents are still working to move forward amidst the widespread damage. On Friday, vehicles were allowed back onto the island to assess the destruction.

The storm left behind significant wreckage. While some were luckier than others, many properties suffered major damage, with several feet of water inundating homes and businesses. Appliances were ruined, and the drywall in many buildings now needs to be replaced.

The island bears a haunting resemblance to the aftermath of Hurricanes Ian and Helene. Houses on stilts have been flattened, and debris from past storms has mixed with the latest destruction, complicating cleanup efforts. Crews are working tirelessly to remove sand from roadways, but much of the island remains inaccessible.

Governor Ron DeSantis visited Fort Myers Beach on Friday, emphasizing his commitment to aiding in the recovery. Most businesses remain closed, and the timeline for reopening is still unclear.

As the cleanup continues, President Joe Biden is expected to visit Florida tomorrow to assess the damage caused by Hurricane Milton. His visit, along with Governor DeSantis, will focus on coordinating federal aid to support the recovery process.

TNW News remains dedicated to providing 24/7 live coverage of the ongoing relief efforts. Stay tuned for continued updates, including live coverage of the President's visit. Follow us on social media and visit TNWWeather.com for the latest recovery information.

Copyright TNW News LLC, October 12, 2024. All rights reserved.

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