Governor Ron DeSantis Addresses Hurricane Helene Impact and Ongoing Recovery on Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island, FL — Governor Ron DeSantis held a press conference on Thursday to address the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, which ravaged southeastern Florida earlier this week. During the conference, DeSantis confirmed the storm's death toll at 15, with the majority of fatalities occurring in Pinellas County. He warned that the number is expected to rise as recovery efforts continue.

"I would think it's probably at a minimum of 15. I think it's likely more than 15," DeSantis stated somberly.

DeSantis commended the state's response, highlighting the rapid recovery efforts that have seen 2.4 million power accounts restored and schools reopened. He described the power restoration as the "fastest after a major hurricane," surpassing previous responses to Hurricanes Ian and Idalia.

The Governor urged Floridians to stay resilient during this challenging time. "Hang in there," he encouraged, acknowledging the hardships many are enduring in the wake of the storm.

Executive Actions to Aid Recovery

DeSantis detailed three executive actions designed to support storm victims and ensure swift recovery:

1. Temporary Removal of Rental Restrictions:

To assist those displaced by the hurricane, DeSantis signed an executive action lifting the 30-day rental agreement restrictions, allowing victims to rent on a need-to-rent basis. "If you are a victim of Hurricane Helene, those regulations are lifted, and you can rent what you need to rent," he explained.

2. Continuity of Elections:

With the 2024 presidential election just 32 days away, many prospective voters in southeastern Florida are facing logistical challenges due to displacement. To ensure their participation, DeSantis has authorized supervisors of elections in 12 counties, including Manatee, Hillsborough, and Sarasota, to make necessary accommodations for voters affected by the hurricane.

3. Deployment of Florida's National Guard:

The Governor also announced the deployment of the Florida National Guard to critical shipping ports around the state to maintain supply chains for essential goods, such as medical supplies and non-perishable foods, crucial for recovery efforts. "The Florida National Guard and Florida State Guard will be deployed to critical ports to maintain order and, if possible, resume operations," DeSantis said, stressing the importance of maintaining the flow of goods to hurricane-impacted areas.

As recovery continues, Floridians are encouraged to follow state guidance and remain patient, knowing that efforts are underway to restore normalcy in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.