Hurricanes

The aftermath of Hurricane Helene has left Cedar Key with much to rebuild, but the strength of its community remains unwavering.

The drop coincided with eight private insurers last week being able to assume Citizens policies under what is known as a “depopulation” program.

Two Floridians who used to lead the agency support the president's review council, but they caution that federal emergency management is needed. Few states have more at risk than Florida.

The proposal calls for allocating $590 million toward the My Safe Florida Home program and $30 million for the state's Condo Pilot Program.

Staff members of the Florida Public Service Commission recommended proposals that would add about $21 a month for Duke customers and $30 for TECO customers starting in March.

At a state Senate Banking and Insurance Committee meeting, the Office of Insurance Regulation director said regulators are still making a decision.

While many people know to get non-perishable food and clean water before a hurricane, not as many people consider how they can be technologically prepared for the storm and the days that follow.

Lacey Coe understands two things for certain: the power of food and importance of community.

Castor also emphasized the need to modernize wastewater systems and the power grid in the wake of recent storms.

The funding request includes $40 billion for the FEMA Disaster Relief Fund, $24 billion for the Department of Agriculture, $12 billion for HUD's block grant disaster recovery program, and $8 billion for the Department of Transportation, among other allocations.

Flooding caused nearly $60 million in damage to Sarasota County in Hurricane Debby, according to county estimates.

People coming to Florida from up north must also deal with the effects of recent storms and increasing insurance costs.