Hurricane Michael Recovery

Five years ago Hurricane Michael crashed into Florida’s Panhandle. The storm devastated the communities in its path. Homes, jobs and lives were lost. Today, many of the residents who lived through the disaster say they’re still struggling to recover.

Mayor Greg Brudnicki and other leaders from a rebuilt Panama City traveled to the southwestern coast this week to help officials plan a way forward. Brudnicki says officials have to concentrate on removing debris because nothing else can happen until that's done.

A legislative budget panel this week gave Gov. DeSantis millions more dollars to pump into storm recovery projects after Hurricane Ian hit Southwest Florida. Ian landed nearly 4 years after Michael slammed into the Panhandle, where recovery continues.

The high cost of rebuilding drove some residents out. But there are many newcomers. A real estate agent says, "It used to be called the Forgotten Coast. I don't think it's so forgotten anymore."

It will help about a dozen counties prepare for future disasters.

Gov. Ron DeSantis announced more Hurricane Michael recovery assistance is coming to rural communities across the Panhandle on Thursday.

Three years ago, the storm blew the century-old schoolhouse off its foundation, tore up its roof and shattered its glass windows.

The Forest Landowners Association wants Congress help landowners recover their lands and losses.

Three years after Hurricane Michael devastated Panama City, signs of recovery are evident. Both residents and Panama City mayor Greg Brudnicki are praising the improvements.

The funds will help cover road repair costs, among other efforts.

Construction on Lynn Haven’s new permanent City Hall is getting underway more than 2 1/2 years after Hurricane Michael. It's the latest milestone the city's nearing in its years-long recovery effort.

Hurricane Michael destroyed about 2.8 million acres of trees, and the leftover debris is creating a serious threat of wildland fire to certain panhandle communities.