Some staying, others leaving Fort Myers Beach ahead of possible storm

Reporter: Gail Levy Writer: Jack Lowenstein
Published: Updated:
Credit: WINK News.

We are tracking Tropical Storm Elsa. It could become the first Atlantic hurricane of 2021 and is the fifth named storm of the season.

With the Fourth of July holiday weekend upon us Thursday, we spoke to people on Fort Myers Beach about what they have in mind ahead of celebration and preparation.

We spoke to a mix of people on the beach – some leaving Saturday and some staying through the holiday.

Some people at Lani Kai Island Resort told me — a handful of people with reservations — called to delay their arrival until after Elsa passes by. Other than that, it’s full speed ahead for many during this July 4 weekend.

But if Elsa gets serious, hotels such as Lani Kai have a plan to help their guests make the best of it.

“We will batten down the hatches and still do everything we can to first keep our guest safe number one, but also provide a fun experience for them,” said Melissa Schneider, the marketing director at Lani Kai.

We also met people who see what’s on the radar and don’t want to wait and see what the ultimate conditions will become.

“If we happen to get stranded in Florida, hopefully, it’s not a hurricane,” said Eric Sergesketter, who was visiting from Iowa.

“I’m glad we’re leaving then because it sounds like we don’t want to be here,” said Sarah Johnson, visiting on vacation. “Maybe everyone can have a good Fourth of July, and then, it’ll come in,” said. “Celebrate one day and then call it a day.”

Fort Myers Beach plans to host its fireworks at 9 p.m. Sunday, July 4 at this time.

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