Author: Owen E. Richason IV
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Hurricane shutters are handy for home protection. They are usually simple to install and when customized, are ready to go on short notice. These storm-proofing shutters are made from a variety of materials and when danger is nigh, can help protect residential and commercial properties alike from extensive damage. However, such utilitarian items are intended…
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A grassroots rescue organization has formed in Pinellas County following the devastating impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. What began as a Facebook group of local boating enthusiasts coordinating rescue efforts has evolved into “Rescue Pinellas,” a developing nonprofit organization dedicated to helping storm victims. Founded by Jenn Greacen, the group initially mobilized to rescue…
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According to city authorities, the accumulation of storm-related refuse is obstructing access to water meters, preventing accurate readings…
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The recent onslaught of Hurricanes Helene and Milton has left many Tampa Bay area families displaced and searching for housing assistance and resources. The back-to-back storms have caused widespread flooding and damage, preventing numerous residents from returning to their homes. Unprecedented Demand for Housing Assistance Mike Sutton, President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity Tampa…
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Red light running is a serious problem across Tampa Bay – especially in Pinellas County. Within just 273.8 square miles, a complex network of major thoroughfares and intersections serves nearly 1 million residents (961,400), or 3,339 people per square mile, and its population is the most dense in the entire Sunshine State. At the last…
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Hurricane Milton heavily impacted Tampa Bay, exacerbating damage already caused by Hurricane Helene. Many homeowners, especially those lacking wind and flood protection, face further challenges, and reinsurance prices are expected to rise. Florida’s Citizens Property Insurance will absorb much of the loss, though national insurers will also be significantly affected. Hurricane Milton’s Devastating Impact: Economic…
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Exciting news! Pinellas County Parks & Conservation Resources will reopen several parks on Saturday, Oct. 19, following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Reopening Parks: Please be aware that some amenities may still be unavailable during the cleanup process. Watch out for tall grass, debris, and wildlife. Avoid downed trees and restricted areas, and report any issues…
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Hurricane Milton left an indelible and destructive Mark on the state of Florida when it ravaged the peninsula one week ago today. Coming ashore as a strong Category 3 cyclone, storm surge rose to as much as 10 ft in Siesta Key, with shorelines to the north experiencing 5 feet. (Image credit: screenshot of Duke…
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Hurricane Milton evacuees who left days before the storm hit are discovering when walking into retail and grocery stores partially or entirely empty shelves… #PIESun
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Curiously, some neighborhoods are only partially powered, with some homes having restoration while neighbors, only across the street or the property next door remain without service… #PIESun
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With Tropical Storm Milton spinning and soon forming into Hurricane Milton in the Gulf of Mexico and on a path to the west coast of Florida, residents of the Sunshine State, still reeling from Hurricane Helene, must prepare for another powerful tropical weather event and many projected to be potential victims will board up windows,…
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Flood damage stands as the most prevalent natural disaster in the U.S. and among the most expensive. Florida, being highly susceptible, saw only about 18% of homeowners with flood insurance in 2022 – just two years ago. This figure is expected to rise since Citizens Property Insurance mandated flood insurance for policyholders in special flood…
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Beginning today, residents affected by recent storms can access a centralized “insurance village” to streamline their insurance claim processes, hosted by the Florida Department of Financial Services’ Division of Consumer Services. The Florida Division of Consumer Services has coordinated with over 40 insurance providers to offer on-site support at this temporary facility. Its primary goal…
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Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, Florida’s leading home insurer, is taking a firm stance on hurricane damage claims. The state-backed company, which disbursed nearly $3 billion across 200,000 policies in the wake of Hurricane Ian, is now requiring policyholders to demonstrate that these funds were indeed used for home repairs. This move could potentially lead to…
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4.7 million. That’s how many households Lost power across six states, according to the latest figures. Approximately 1. 2 million Florida homes were without electricity when Hurricane Helene passed west of the Gulf beaches and eventually made landfall across the Big Bend region. As of this morning, 21,000 Florida homeowners still have no power, down…
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Pinellas County is reeling in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the worst storm to hit the area in a century according to Administrator Barry Burton. Officials extended the local state of emergency for a week on Tuesday as recovery efforts slowly begin. (Photo credit: WFLA) Devastating Damage: Storm Surge Fury: Recovery Efforts Take Shape: Meeting…
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In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene’s destructive path through Florida, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has activated its disaster assistance program. This initiative aims to support homeowners and renters who have suffered uninsured losses due to the hurricane. FEMA’s aid package covers a wide range of needs, including temporary housing, basic home repairs, personal…
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St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport or PIE is where our son experienced his first interaction with airplanes as a toddler and was the same location as his first flight to…
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