Fort Myers Beach officials hold news conference regarding upcoming tropical storm

Reporter: Asha Patel Writer: Nicholas Karsen
Published: Updated:
Fort Myers Beach cleans up together after Milton
FILE IMAGE- Drone view of Fort Myers Beach. Credit: WINK

As the state of Florida braces for Tropical Storm Idalia, Fort Myers Beach held a press conference to share information about storm preparations.

It has been close to a year since Hurricane Ian impacted Southwest Florida, and many people are still in recovery. With Tropical Storm Idalia rapidly approaching Florida, Monday, people are nervous about further property damage.

Gov. Ron Desantis signed an executive order declaring a state of emergency in 33 counties including Lee. The current projections of the tropical storm report that Southwest Florida will be impacted by Idalia. However, the projected intensity of the storm remains unknown.

Drone view of Fort Myers Beach. Credit: WINK

A news conference was held by Lee County officials Monday morning. The officials spoke about the town’s plans regarding the upcoming storm.

Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers, Fort Myers Beach Fire District Chief Scott Wirth and Town Manager Andy Hyatt all spoke at the conference. 

Worth reported that the fire department has an active plan for the upcoming storm but has prepared for a minor event. Storms can be dynamic and unpredictable, so the potential of a major storm remains possible for Southwest Florida.

Two to four inches of storm surge is predicted, and the island will be evacuated if the surge is greater than expected.

Allers recalled lessons learned from Hurricane Ian and urged people not to stay in travel trailers during this storm. Leave them and get to a safe structure.

People should also pick up trash cans and secure outdoor equipment such as boats and patio furniture. People are advised not to trim trees and create new debris for the island, as waste management is working to clear debris and construction sites.

A good reminder for storm preppers is to fill up your vehicles with gas, have non-perishable food and water available. Due to the unpredictable nature of tropical storms, it is advisable to have a hurricane preparedness kit.

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