Florida Grapples with Aftermath of Back-to-Back Hurricanes: Officials Warn of Scams and Call for Safety

State officials in Florida have issued warnings about potential home repair scams in the wake of hurricanes Milton and Helene. These warnings highlight concerns about contractors who may take advantage of residents needing repair work on their damaged properties. Pinellas County Consumer Protection advises citizens to employ caution, suggesting they remain wary of ‘fly-by-night’ contractors who solicit work door-to-door, demand large deposits, and fail to deliver on promises. Officials also caution against making full advance payments.

Sarasota Bradenton International Airport announced its continued closure as Hurricane Milton passed over, leaving behind significant damage that is still being assessed. Airport officials confirmed cleanup operations are underway following the hurricane.

Another challenge facing officials is the spread of misinformation online about the hurricanes. The scale of false information, including doctored images and conspiracy theories, has compounded efforts to provide accurate updates. Former President Donald Trump has even been cited in discussions about misinformation concerning events surrounding the hurricanes.

The hurricane made landfall in Siesta Key, Florida, as a category three storm, causing extensive flooding and damage across the region. Reports indicate substantial wind damage and debris, necessitating ongoing search and rescue operations, with further assessments expected to extend over weeks or months.

The storm has since moved out into the Atlantic, now classified as a post-tropical cyclone, while rescue missions continue in affected areas of Florida. As of the latest reports, at least 16 fatalities have been confirmed, with ongoing concerns about potential increases in the death toll as recovery efforts progress.

In addition to storm-related fatalities, officials have confirmed the involvement of at least 38 tornadoes, which inflicted severe damage, including the destruction of the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office.

Governor Ron DeSantis noted in a press briefing that thousands remain without power, describing ongoing restoration efforts with over 40,000 workers engaged and additional support from urban search and rescue teams spearheading relief and recovery activities.

In the affected areas, among those displaced is Crystal Coleman, who described the trauma of her experience with the storm and tornadoes that followed, leaving her and her daughter homeless. Support organizations, including World Central Kitchen, have been providing essential services such as hot meals to affected residents.

The economic impact of Milton has been estimated by AccuWeather to range between $160 billion to $180 billion. The state has considerable reserve funds—a buffer against the financial demands of extensive disaster recovery operations.

Dealing with the aftermath, NASA is inspecting their Kennedy Space Center for possible damages, with engineers conducting initial safety checks post-hurricane.

Weather conditions in Florida are expected to improve gradually, although local meteorologists suggest the possibility of residual thunderstorms and showers in certain parts. Efforts by rescue teams and authorities remain critical as Florida continues its path to recovery.