A year after Hurricane Debby brushed past Tampa Bay, Gulfport is still reeling from the impact of what local officials have called a “triple threat” storm season.

Debby brought widespread flooding to the small waterfront city, damaging hundreds of homes and overwhelming infrastructure. It was the first in a string of storms—followed by Hurricanes Helene and Milton—that compounded destruction across the community.

According to Gulfport Vice Mayor April Thanos, Debby alone flooded 637 homes and apartments, representing nearly 10% of the city’s residences. While debris was cleared quickly, rebuilding efforts have stalled due to permitting delays and continued weather setbacks. As of late July, only nine homeowners had completed repairs and closed out their permits.

In the immediate aftermath, residents dealt with scattered boats, eroded beaches, and damaged landmarks. The Gulfport Casino, a historic venue listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has yet to be repaired as local, state, and federal officials debate how best to restore it.

Some progress has been made. The city has replenished part of its beach, allowing community events like volleyball tournaments to resume. The Bert and Walter Williams Pier has also reopened, though lighting upgrades are still pending.

Even amid slow recovery, Gulfport has found strength in community.

“O’Maddy’s has always been the place to go,” said Jennifer Kimbrell, manager of O’Maddy’s Bar & Grille. “No matter what kind of storm you’re facing in life, people come here to feel a sense of normalcy.”

Vice Mayor Thanos agreed: “People really stepped up to help one another.”

Gulfport is currently conducting a stormwater system study and vulnerability assessment to secure grant funding for replacing its aging drainage infrastructure. The results are expected by December.

Follow the St. Pete-Clearwater Sun on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Google, & X

(Image credit: Spectrum News)

PIE-Sun.com: local St. Pete-Clearwater news