Hurricane Aids & Tips - before, during, & after
We hope that you find thIS information helpful!
Preparedness: pre·pared·ness noun The state of having been made ready or prepared for use or action.
Recovery: re·cov·ery noun A return to a normal or healthy condition.
~ The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language
In a nutshell … When “THEY” tell you to prepare, “THEY” are telling you to take responsibility for yourself, your family, your pet(s), your property, your possessions, etc. You know your needs and your family’s needs better than “THEY” do. Don’t wait for “THEM” to come and help before, during, or after a storm or disaster, or give you a handout, or come to your aid or rescue. You have the power first to act for yourself and your family, so get ready now!
TIP: You may want to print and save the information on this and the hyperlinked pages now as you may not have power or an internet connection before, during, or after a storm.
Elevate Florida Program
Elevate Florida Application Portal: Florida Division of Emergency Management has launched Elevate Florida, a residential mitigation program aimed at enhancing community resilience by protecting private residences from natural hazards.
Posted 03/18/2025
Source: Charlotte County Storm & Recovery webpage
SBA physical damage loan deadline extended to April 27, 2025
The SBA is extending the physical damage loan deadline to apply for disaster declarations affected by the 2024 federal funding lapse to April 27, 2025. Online applications remain open through the MySBA Portal: https://lending.sba.gov. For further assistance with applications, email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov or call 1-800-659-2955 (TTY: 7-1-1).
Posted 03/18/2025
Source: Charlotte County Storm & Recovery webpage
Charlotte County Business Recovery Center Moves to Family Service Center
The Business Recovery Center has relocated from the Town Center mall to the Family Services Center at 21500 Gibralter Drive in Port Charlotte to assist residents affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The BRC provides SBA assistance to businesses and residents who sustained economic losses from either hurricane.
The BRC will be open from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday through April 30. The BRC will be closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Charlotte County Transit Services is offering free rides to and from the BRC. To schedule a ride, call 941-575-4000 and select Option 1 or book the ride through the Charlotte Rides mobile app.
Posted 03/18/2025
Source: Charlotte County Storm & Recovery news dated 03/12/2025
Charlotte County Property Appraiser Accepting Applications for Partial Property Tax Refunds
Apply Now - Deadline is March 1, 2025
The Charlotte County Property Appraiser is now accepting applications for partial 2024 property tax refunds if a residential improvement was destroyed or rendered uninhabitable for at least 30 days due to a catastrophic event (hurricane, fire, or other natural disaster). Applications, along with support documentation, must be received on or before March 1, 2025.
To apply and for qualifying requirements, visit https://www.ccappraiser.com/ or call 941-743-1498.
Posted 01/11/2025
Source: Charlotte County Property Appraiser 01/03/2025 News
FEMA Deadline Extended to Jan 7, 2025
Apply Now - FEMA Deadline Extended to Jan 7, 2025
FEMA Individual & Business Assistance for Hurricane Helene & Milton - The deadline for Floridians to apply for FEMA assistance after Hurricanes Milton and Helene has been extended to Jan. 7, 2025. If you have been affected by Hurricanes Helene or Milton, apply for FEMA assistance for displacement, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses. This applies to both homeowners and renters.apply in several ways:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
- On the FEMA mobile app
- Call 800.621.3362 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. EST
- A FEMA Disaster Recovery Center is open 7 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday-Saturday at Tringali Park Community Center, 3460 N. Access Road in Englewood.
For FEMA Disaster Assistance - Please have the following available:
- Your address and zip code
- Condition of your damaged home
- Insurance information, if available
- Social Security number
- Phone number where you can be contacted
- Address where you can get mail or email address to receive electronic notifications
FEMA Clean and Sanitize Assistance has been approved, limited to $300 per eligible household, awarded as a one-time payment following a FEMA home inspection and determination of eligibility. Residents whose homes are habitable but require cleanup actions such as muck out, mold remediation, and limb clearing are eligible to apply for CSA, which is intended to address potential health and safety concerns and ensure minimal damage to homes is addressed to prevent additional losses. This program is not available automatically and must be requested and approved separately while applying for FEMA assistance.
Posted 01/03/2025
Source: Charlotte County Storm & Recovery web page
Policyholders Encouraged to Contact OIR if Florida Policies are Cancelled or Nonrenewed
Florida Insurance Commissioner Mike Yaworsky is encouraging policyholders to reach out directly to the Office of Insurance Regulation if consumers impacted by recent storms receive a notice of nonrenewal or notice of cancellation that may have taken or will take effect between Sept. 26, 2024 until Dec. 10, 2024. Emergency orders are in place that prohibit the cancellation or nonrenewal of a policy in an affected county until Dec. 10, 2024. OIR recently amended emergency orders to extend grace periods for policies and further protect Floridians affected by the storms. OIR stands ready to enforce these orders if necessary.
Read the entire News Release HERE.
Posted 11/17/2024
Source: Florida Office of Insurance Regulation News Release dated 11/13/2024
Seasonal Residents Urged to Check on Homes Following Recent Flooding
From the City of Punta Gorda ...
In light of the recent heavy rains and flooding in our area, the City of Punta Gorda urges all seasonal residents to return to their properties and conduct thorough checks for potential damage. If your home was flooded it may not be safe to live in your home even if water is not currently present.
It is crucial to assess your home's condition to ensure your investment's safety and security. Flooding can lead to significant harm, including structural damage, mold growth, and compromised utilities. Taking prompt action can help prevent further issues and ensure your property is safe for future visits.
Read the entire Media Advisory HERE.
Posted 11/17/2024
Source: City of Punta Gorda Media Advisory dated 11/17/2024
City of Punta Gorda Special Helene/Milton storm damage permit application available
From the City Manager -
A special Helene/Milton storm damage permit application is available on the City's website. Hover over Government, click on Building, and then click on Building Forms; or click HERE. The items must be filled out, and the questions in the middle of the page for adding, extending, or deleting electric, plumbing, or mechanical are answered as NO. If the answer is YES to any of those, it is no longer a repair but an alteration/remodel, and the regular building application and process will need to be followed. If the application is completely filled and the answer is NO, as stated above, we hope to turn these permits around in 24 to 48 hours. At the application's top is an email address to send the form, but paper copies are also accepted.
Posted 11/15/2024
Source: Lynne Matthews 11/02/2024 weekly email
Hurricane Debris Hotline Established
The City of Punta Gorda’s Hurricane Debris Hotline has been established and is operated by the State Debris Contractor. Residents may call 833-843-8810 to have their debris collection questions answered. You may also submit your questions to Punta.Gordainquiries@tetratech.com.
To read the entire Media Advisory, click on the hyperlink below.
Posted 11/07/2024
Source: City of Punta Gorda Media Advisory dated 11/06/2024
City of Punta Gorda Debris Removal Hurricane Milton Update 11.05.2024
Excerpts from the Media Advisory …
- Weekly scheduled trash and recycling routes have been restored.
- The sanitation department has been collecting yard debris, and other Public Works divisions have assisted.
- We have (2) Clamshell trucks and (2) packer trucks being operated by the sanitation department 7 days a week.
- On any given day we have either (3) packer trucks or (3) dump trucks along with a dump trailer being operated by canal maintenance and right-of-way staff 7 days a week. What trucks are being used is dictated by standard trash route schedules and available packer trucks.
To read the entire Media Advisory, click on the hyperlink below.
Posted 11/07/2024
Source: City of Punta Gorda Media Advisory dated 11/05/2024
FEMA Assistance
FEMA Individual & Business Assistance for Hurricane Helene & Milton - apply in several ways:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
- On the FEMA mobile app
- Call 800.621.3362 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. EST
- A FEMA Disaster Recovery Center is open 7 a.m.-7 p.m., seven days a week at Tringali Park Community Center, 3460 N. Access Road in Englewood.
For FEMA Disaster Assistance - Please have the following available:
- Your address and zip code
- Condition of your damaged home
- Insurance information, if available
- Social Security number
- Phone number where you can be contacted
- Address where you can get mail or email address to receive electronic notifications
FEMA Clean and Sanitize Assistance has been approved, limited to $300 per eligible household, awarded as a one-time payment following a FEMA home inspection and determination of eligibility. Residents whose homes are habitable but require cleanup actions such as muck out, mold remediation, and limb clearing are eligible to apply for CSA, which is intended to address potential health and safety concerns and ensure minimal damage to homes is addressed to prevent additional losses. This program is not available automatically and must be requested and approved separately while applying for FEMA assistance.
Posted 11/06/2024
Source: Charlotte County Storm & Recovery web page
Pool Drained And Refilled After Flooding From Hurricanes Helene Or Milton?
From the City of Punta Gorda ...
If you have had your pool drained and refilled after flooding from Hurricanes Helene or Milton, you may be eligible for a special refill adjustment that will NOT count towards the standard once per year adjustment limit.
After the pool has been refilled, please complete the Owner Adjustment Request form found on the City's website HERE.
You MUST include the following on your form:
- Specifically note that this pool refill is due to Hurricane Helene or Milton.
- Provide the dates when the pool was drained and the dates when the pool was refilled.
- The date of the completed repairs and a copy of any invoices and receipts attributed to the repair (whether contracted or completed by the property owner).
- How many gallons the pool holds.
Please note: If the billed consumption is being estimated, the adjustment will be held until an actual read of the meter is obtained.
Please submit your completed form and copies of applicable receipts/invoices no later than January 31, 2025:
- By email to PGCollections@CityofPuntaGordaFL.com, or,
- By mail to Billing & Collections, 126 Harvey Street, Punta Gorda, FL 33950, or,
- Drop it off at the front desk on the second floor of the City Hall Annex.
Posted 10/25/2024
Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 10/25/2024 and City of Punta Gorda Billing & Collections Forms web page
Help Available From the Goodwill Community Resource Center
The Goodwill Community Resource Center in Port Charlotte has experienced staff who can help residents apply for FEMA and SBA assistance.
The Goodwill Community Resource Center is open 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday- Friday and is located inside the Peachland Plaza Goodwill store, 24123 Peachland Blvd, Unit B1, Port Charlotte.
Additional services provided by the Goodwill Community Resource Center include disaster unemployment technical assistance, job search assistance, and internet and website portal navigation. The phone number is 941-255-3884.
Posted 10/28/2024
Source: Charlotte County Emergency Management News dated 10/24/2024
Tax relief in disaster situations from the IRS
To find information from the IRS on the most recent tax relief provisions for taxpayers affected by disaster situations, click HERE.
Posted 10/23/2024
Source: IRS Tax Relief In Disaster Situations webpage
Help for Food and Beverage Workers
The Southern Smoke Foundation offers financial assistance for food and beverage workers - available nationwide and Gulf Coast funded relief for workers in Charlotte, Sarasota, and DeSoto Counties. Individuals may receive up to $1,000 and families may be eligible for up to $1,200. Apply online: southernsmoke.org/emergency-relief
Posted 10/23/2024
Source: Charlotte County Hurricane Milton Storm & Recovery webpage
Post-Hurricane Policyholder Protections from the FL Office of Insurance Regulation
From the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) …
“OIR remains committed to protecting consumers in the aftermath of the recent hurricanes and fully expects insurers to keep the lines of communication open with policyholders throughout the recovery effort,” said Insurance Commissioner Michael Yaworsky. “As we make progress in the recovery, OIR will work diligently to both support policyholders in impacted areas and continue our efforts to monitor the claims handling practices of our insurers.”
Policyholder Protections for Hurricane Helene
OIR amended EO 400385-24 to protect policyholders impacted by Hurricane Helene. The order applies to all insurers in the state and policyholders in Alachua, Charlotte, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Franklin, Hamilton, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota, Suwannee, Taylor, and Wakulla. The order:
- Extends grace periods for any policy, provision, notice, correspondence, or law that imposes a time limit upon an insured to perform any act until December 10, 2024.
- Prohibits the cancellation or nonrenewal of a policy in an impacted area, except at the written request of the policyholder, until December 10, 2024.
- Prohibits the cancellation or nonrenewal of a personal residential or commercial residential property insurance policy covering a property repaired as a result of damage from Hurricane Helene for a period of 90 days after it has been repaired.
- Directs insurers, surplus lines and other regulated entities to implement processes and procedures to facilitate the efficient payment of claims.
Policyholder Protections for Hurricane Milton
OIR issued EO 400386-24 to protect policyholders impacted by Hurricane Milton. The order applies to all insurers in the state and policyholders in Brevard, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, DeSoto, Duval, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Marion, Martin, Nassau, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Sumter, and Volusia. The order:
- Extends grace periods for any policy, provision, notice, correspondence, or law that imposes a time limit upon an insured to perform any act until December 10, 2024.
- Prohibits the cancellation or nonrenewal of a policy in an impacted area, except at the written request of the policyholder, until December 10, 2024.
- Prohibits the cancellation or nonrenewal of a personal residential or commercial residential property insurance policy covering a property repaired as a result of damage from Hurricane Milton for a period of 90 days after it has been repaired.
- Directs insurers, surplus lines and other regulated entities to implement processes and procedures to facilitate the efficient payment of claims.
Floridians seeking assistance with insurance related questions should contact the Department of Financial Services Consumer Services either by visiting their website, or by contacting the DFS Consumer Services Assistance Line 1-877-693-5236. The line is open Monday-Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Posted 10/17/2024
Source: Florida Office of Insurance Regulation Press Release dated 10/16/2024
Resources from Nonprofits
In the wake of Hurricane Milton, more resources are available from nonprofit agencies for Floridians and Charlotte County residents:
Insurance Help
- The Florida Division of Consumer Services assists insurance consumers in the aftermath of a disaster. https://myfloridacfo.com/division/consumers/storm/resources or call the insurance consumer helpline: 1-877-693-5236, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
- United Policyholders is a nonprofit consumer advocacy group that offers guidance on navigating claims and purchasing appropriate insurance. They do not sell insurance or take money from insurance companies. Visit http://www.uphelp.org/Milton or contact Julitza Perez, the United Policyholders Florida Local Liaison and attorney, at julitza.perez@uphelp.org or call 787-454-3353.
Legal Services
- Florida Rural Legal Services is a nonprofit law firm that provides free civil legal assistance to low-income individuals, families, and vulnerable populations including the elderly, Veterans, and victims of crime. Services include assistance with insurance claims, proof of ownership, property disputes, disaster benefits, and legal papers lost in the storm. Visit frls.org or call 1-888-582-3410.
Older Adults and Adults with Disabilities
- Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida is a nonprofit organization connecting older adults (age 60-up), adults with disabilities, and caregivers to resources and assistance for living safely with independence and dignity: www.aaaswfl.org or call 866-413-5337.
- Center for Independent Living of Gulf Coast is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with disabilities regardless of age: https://www.cilgulfcoastflorida.org or call 855-260-4575.
Behavioral Health
- Charlotte Behavioral Health Care is a nonprofit community-based behavioral health care provider offering a full range of mental health services and substance use disorder treatment in Charlotte County. Visit www.cbhcfl.org or call 941-639-8300.
Cleanup Assistance
- Samaritan’s Purse is providing assistance to homeowners affected by Hurricane Milton. Volunteers are available to help with moving personal belongings and furniture to the curb, flood cleanup, sanitizing, roof tarping, and chainsaw work. This service is provided free of charge. Call 833-747-1234 to speak with a Samaritan’s Purse representative.
- Crisis Cleanup connects you with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups, and faith communities who may be able to assist with cleanup after a storm, such as mucking out, trees, tarps, and debris. All services are free, but service is not guaranteed due to the overwhelming need. Call 844-965-1386 to ask for help. This hotline will remain open through Friday, Oct. 25, 2024.
- UPDATE: The Crisis Cleanup hotline has been extended to November 8, 2024. Source: Charlotte County NEWS dated 11/01/2024
For additional resources and assistance from community organizations involved in disaster relief, please visit ww.coadfl.org.
Posted 10/17/2024
Source: Charlotte County News dated 10/17/2024
Red Cross and FEMA DSA Teams Visiting Charlotte County
Red Cross and FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams will visit neighborhoods heavily affected by Hurricane Milton. Teams will visit the most heavily damaged areas first, then move on to less impacted areas. DSA teams will carry FEMA photo identification and Red Cross workers will be identified by company branding.
FEMA DSA crews will go door to door to help people apply for federal assistance, check the status of applications, identify potential needs, and make connections with organizations that can provide additional resources.
The Red Cross workers will be taking pictures of houses to document the damage in the affected area. The Red Cross will not enter any structures or enter posted private property to complete their assessments.
The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office encourages you to call the non-emergency number 941-639-2101 to report anyone who claims to be with FEMA without proper identification.
Posted 10/17/2024
Source: Charlotte County News dated 10/17/2024
DISASTER UNEMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE IS AVAILABLE TO FLORIDIANS IMPACTED BY HURRICANE MILTON
FloridaCommerce announced on Oct. 15, 2024 that Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) is available to businesses and residents whose employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted as a direct result of Hurricane Milton and are not eligible for regular state or federal Reemployment Assistance benefits. Eligible Floridians whose employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted as a direct result of Hurricane Milton are encouraged to submit a claim at FloridaJobs.org.
Click HERE to read the entire Press Release dated 10/15/2024.
Posted 10/16/2024
Source: FloridaCommerce Press Release dated 10/15/2024
Charlotte County Debris Drop-Off Locations
** UPDATE 10/24/2024 **
The Mid-County Mini-Transfer & Recycling Facility, 19765 Kenilworth Blvd., Port Charlotte will be open 24 hours, seven days a week until further notice.
Posted 10/28/2024
Source: Charlotte County Emergency Management News dated 10/24/2024
Three temporary drop-off locations for storm debris are now open for residential drop-off only, no contractors or businesses.
Transfer Facilities:
- Mid-County Mini-Transfer & Recycling Facility, 19765 Kenilworth Blvd., Port Charlotte
- West Charlotte Mini-Transfer & Recycling Facility, 7070 Environmental Way, Englewood
Hours of both Transfer Facilities: 9:00 a.m. to gates closing at 4:45 p.m., Monday-Saturday.
Special Drop-Off Location at the Landfill:
- Charlotte County Landfill, 29751 Zemel Road, Punta Gorda
Hours: 7:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday and 7:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays.
The following restrictions apply at all drop-off locations:
- Proof of county residency is required. Residents need to bring a valid form of identification to include name, photo, and local address. Photo identification from other areas must be accompanied by a current utility bill or document showing proof of residency at a Charlotte County residential address. P.O. Box addresses are not accepted as proof of residency.
- Trailers cannot exceed 12 feet in length.
- Just storm debris. No perishable waste, such as household garbage, No yard trimmings in bags.
- Residential only — no business or commercial use.
Until further notice, the drop-off sites are unlimited in number of visits and amount of material dropped off.
All drop-off locations are free and accept debris from residential properties:
- Construction and demolition materials
- Electronic waste (e-waste)
- Household hazardous waste
- White goods (large appliances such as stoves, refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, and dryers)
- Vegetation not in bags.
Posted 10/15/2024
Source: Charlotte County News dated 10/15/2024
Punta Gorda Yard Waste Removal Hurricane Milton
Yard waste collection, except for the Historic District, resumed Tuesday, October 15, 2024. The Sanitation crews will collect yard waste piles the size of a wheelbarrow, bagged or single limbs only (Paper yard waste bags or designated yard waste barrels only – No plastic bags allowed). The larger piles will be collected by the contractor hired by the city to remove them after Hurricane Milton.
If you have any questions, please contact the Public Works Department at (941) 575-5050 during the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Posted 10/15/2024
Source: City of Punta Gorda Media Advisory dated 10/15/2024
Punta Gorda Debris Removal Hurricane Milton
The contractor hired to remove debris after Hurricane Milton will start in the Historic District beginning Wednesday, October 16, 2024. The trucks are very large and will need as much space as possible. Please DO NOT park your vehicles on the sides of the street where the haulers cannot get through in these areas. For your safety, please use extreme caution while in the area as the trucks are cleaning up the debris.
If you have any questions, please contact the Public Works Department at (941) 575-5050 during the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Posted 10/15/2024
Source: City of Punta Gorda Media Advisory dated 10/15/2024
Multi-Agency Resource Center Open in Port Charlotte
A Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) is open at the Port Charlotte Town Center mall to assist residents affected by Hurricane Milton. The center, located at 1441 Tamiami Trail in Port Charlotte (inside the mall, across from the FYE store), provides local and state resources to support recovery efforts.
The MARC will be open from 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday, and from 12 noon-6:00 p.m. Sunday.
Charlotte County Transit Services is offering free rides to and from the MARC. To schedule a ride, call the Charlotte County Emergency Operations Center at 941-833-4000.
Posted 10/15/2024
Source: Charlotte County News dated 10/15/2024
In case you were wondering ...
How high did the water get? The working estimate in the City of Punta Gorda limits is about a foot higher than Helene. Where we have a sensor at the Shell Creek dam indicated (measured at above zero ground elevation) 7.1 feet for Helene and 9.12 feet for Milton with reverse flow pushing in. It will take time before an official depth is available.
Posted 10/14/2024
Source: Mayor Lynne Matthews 10/13/2024 weekly email
CIty of Punta Gorda - Temporary Use Permits
Temporary Use permits are available in the City of Punta Gorda for utilizing campers/RVs/motorhomes as living quarters while your home is being restored after substantial damage from Helene and/or Milton. Contact the Urban Design Department at (941) 575-3352.
Posted 10/14/2024
Source: City of Punta Gorda Facebook page posted 10/13/2024 (this is not posted on the City’s website at this time)
HOPE FLORIDA – ACTIVATE HOPE
Serving as the emergency response arm for the Hope Florida initiative, Activate Hope pulls together the private sector, nonprofits, and government resources to help Floridians get back on their feet following a natural disaster. Activate Hope helps connect Floridians with outside resources to provide food, household goods, home repairs, and more. Click HERE to fill out a form to request help or call 833-GET-HOPE.
Posted 10/14/2024
Source: Hope Florida Hurricane Recovery webpage
Disaster Distress Helpline
It’s okay to not be okay after a hurricane. This is a lot for all of us. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. The Disaster Distress Helpline from The American Red Cross is here to listen and support you. Call or text 1-800-985-5990 for free, 24/7 help.
Take care of yourself — you matter.
Posted 10/14/2024
Source: Charlotte County Emergency Management Facebook page post dated 10/14/2024
Need to locate or connect with a loved one after Hurricanes Milton or Helene?
If you need help locating or connecting with your loved ones after the recent hurricanes, the American Red Cross may be able to assist you. The Reunification Plan tools can help if assistance is needed.
Call 1-800 RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) and provide as much detail as you can to assist them in potentially locating your missing loved one. Alternatively, submit your information via online form HERE.
Posted 10/12/2024
Source: City of Punta Gorda website (top of page with Alerts, etc.) and the American Red Cross website
Want to Help Your Neighbors in Need?
To volunteer and help your community, call the Charlotte County Volunteer Reception Center at the Family Services Center, 9:00am - 4:00pm, Monday - Saturday at 941.370.2734.
Posted 10/13/2024
Source: Charlotte County Advisory dated 10/13/2024
VolunteerFlorida: Residents, groups, and organizations, contractors or professionals willing to volunteer can register online at VolunteerFlorida.org/volunteerconnect. Contractors or professionals may also email coadVRC@gmail.com. Volunteer at the Family Services Center, 21500 Gibralter Drive in Port Charlotte; open 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Monday-Saturday or call 941.370.2734.
Financial donations can be made online at COADFL.org/donate.
Posted 10/14/2024
Source: Charlotte County Emergency Management Storm & Recovery webpage
Punta Gorda City Manager’s Weekly Highlights Report on Hurricane Milton
Read the Punta Gorda City Manager’s Weekly Highlights Report on Hurricane Milton dated 10/11/2024 HERE.
Posted 10/12/2024
Source: City of Punta Gorda News List web page
Charlotte county hurricane milton recovery information
For Hurricane Milton recovery information from Charlotte County click HERE.
Posted 10/12/2024
Reduce Water Usage During Storms
From the City of Punta Gorda ...
With Hurricane Milton approaching, it is crucial for residents to help reduce strain on the sewer systems by conserving water. Storm surge and heavy rainfall will inundate the sewer system, making it difficult for wastewater to flow properly. By limiting water use before, during, and directly after the storm—such as avoiding long showers, laundry, and excessive flushing—residents can help reduce the risk of sewer backups and overflows that could lead to contamination and further flood damage. Your cooperation can make a big difference in minimizing infrastructure stress.
For more information contact the City of Punta Gorda Utilities Department at (941) 575-5088 or Utilities@CityofPuntaGordaFL.com.
Posted 10/09/2024
Source: City of Punta Gorda Media Advisory dated 10/09/2024
Clear Storm Drain and Driveway Culverts
From David Elkin, BSIA Security Director …
Storm Drain and Driveway Culverts are blocked up from debris etc. from the storm. Homeowners that can should clean out as best they can or ask their landscapers to do that as much of it is yard waste etc.
If you have electrical issues at your boat lifts which many do (if you did not shut power off to them), have your repairs done with GFI outlets (many of the older lifts don't have them) so this will help down the road.
Posted 10/08/2024
Source: BSIA 10/08/2024 Tuesday Bulletin
Potential Sewer System Impacts During Heavy Rains and Storm Surge
From the City of Punta Gorda ...
As we brace for heavy rain and the possibility of a hurricane impacting the area, the Utilities Department is reminding residents to be aware of the potential effects of excessive rainfall and storm surge on the City’s sanitary sewer system.
While the City's sanitary sewer system is designed to handle wastewater efficiently, extreme weather conditions, such as those experienced during Hurricane Helene, can overwhelm the system. This may result in temporary backups and overflows. Such conditions are largely driven by the volume of rain and storm surge, which can lead to standing water, property damage, and potential health risks.
Residents are advised to be aware of the following potential effects:
- Sewer Backups: In rare instances, excessive rainfall can lead to infiltration of the sewer system, which may cause temporary backups in homes or businesses.
- Contaminated Water: Sewer overflows can introduce contaminants into standing water and nearby bodies of water, creating a possible public health risk.
- Property Damage: Flooding during heavy rain and storm surge can result in property damage.
Read the entire Media Advisory HERE.
Posted 10/06/2024
Source: City of Punta Media Advisory dated 10/05/2024
In anticipation of A Hurricane
From Charlotte County ...
For storm information, call the Charlotte County Emergency Operations Center at 941-833-4000 from 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. daily.
Follow Charlotte County Emergency Management for important emergency information at www.charlottecountyfl.gov/em, www.facebook.com/oemcharlottecounty, and www.x.com/ccoem.
Check for Charlotte County news HERE.
Storm and Recovery information may be found HERE.
Posted 10/06/2024
Source: Charlotte County website
FEMA's 50% Rule & RebuiLding After a Disaster
From the City of Punta Gorda ...
Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) 50% Rule (Substantial Damage/Improvement) is crucial in rebuilding efforts after disasters. This is also a requirement of the 2023 Florida Building Code. Read about the Rule HERE.
Posted 10/01/2024
Source: City of Punta Gorda Media Advisory dated 10/01/2024
FEMA & COAD Information
From the City of Punta Gorda ...
FEMA Assistance
If you have been affected by Hurricane Helene, apply for FEMA assistance to take care of your critical needs. FEMA may provide financial help to assist you with home repairs, temporary housing, or property damage (appliances, furniture, vehicle, etc.). You may also qualify for help with childcare, medical, lodging, moving, and funeral expenses.
Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or call the FEMA Helpline 1-800-621-3362, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., 7 days a week. Help is available in many languages.
Don’t wait to apply for FEMA assistance and, if you do have insurance, do not wait to file an insurance claim for damage caused by the disaster.
If you have business losses, including property damage and economic losses, you may qualify for assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Visit the MySBA Loan Portal at lending.sba.gov to learn more and apply.
FEMA Hurricane Helene Web Page
FEMA has launched a web page to respond to rumors and confirm the facts related to Hurricane Helene response and recovery. Read the FEMA News Release dated 10/04/2024 HERE.
Posted 10/05/2024
Source: City of Punta Gorda Media Advisory dated 10/05/2024
COAD
COAD is a group of Charlotte County community organizations, working together to provide coordination of services to ensure that unmet needs are addressed, provide financial assistance and supplies, and to share knowledge and resources with Charlotte County residents during a disaster. COAD members include faith-based, non-profits, volunteer groups, and government agencies. To get help visit COAD HERE.
Updated 09/30/2024
Source: City of Punta Gorda Hurricane Helene emails dated September 27, 29, & 30, 2024 unless otherwise noted
HURRICANE DAMAGE REPORTING
Charlotte County has an online Self-Reporting storm damage system to collect storm damage assessments. To report home or business damage, visit tinyurl.com/selfreportdamage, then enter the address, select the type of damage, and add a photo. If possible, include high water marks when reporting damage. Reporting damage in this system gets the information to County departments quickly and eliminates the need to call it in. The information will help the County compile an extensive list of damage. Be aware that property owners must still take whatever steps are necessary to report any damage to their insurance company, FEMA, etc.
Updated 09/27/2024
Source: Charlotte County webpage
Airboat Tour
June 14, 2025
BSIA MEMBERS AND THEIR GUESTS ONLY!
Deadline to register is May 30, 2025.
See the Tuesday Bulletin for details and how to sign up.