Governor Ron DeSantis

Florida Response to Hurricane Ian Continues

October 4, 2022
smorganroth

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis received a briefing at the State Emergency Operations Center and is traveling to North Port and Arcadia to survey the areas impacted by Hurricane Ian, distribute hot food, meet with survivors, and issue updates.

Governor DeSantis also highlighted relief efforts that directly aid Floridians, including the start of the fuel tax holiday, and promoted debris removal in communities where it is safe to do so. There are currently 42,000 linemen responding to the more than 840,000 reported power outages. They have already restored power to more than 1.8 million accounts across the state.

First Lady Casey DeSantis announced that the Florida Disaster Fund has raised over $21 million in the first 48 hours of activation. To read more info, click here. The Florida Disaster Fund is the State of Florida’s official private fund established to provide financial assistance to our communities as they respond to and recover from times of emergency or disaster. In partnership with public, private, and other non-governmental organizations, the Florida Disaster Fund supports response and recovery activities. To contribute, please visit www.FloridaDisasterFund.org or text DISASTER to 20222.

Safe and found persons can be reported safe at http://safe.fl.gov.

State response efforts include:

Search and Rescue

  • As of 7 a.m. today, more than 1,600 rescues have been made.
  • There are more than 1,000 team members performing search and rescue.
  • Florida National Guard members are conducting Liaison missions in 14 counties to support and coordinate emergency response missions and requests in those counties.
  • Florida National Guard engineering resources were deployed to assist with route clearance in Pinellas and Lee Counties.
  • The Missouri Task Force 1 Disaster Situational Assessment and Reconnaissance (DSAR) Team is deploying to Florida through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact to support urban search and rescue efforts and incident assessment.
  • A Florida Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Team deployed to Central Florida to support state USAR Task Forces and incident assessment.
  • The National Guard and the Coast Guard are landing helicopters on barrier islands to perform search and rescue.
    • Yesterday, 1,000 National Guard were sent to the barrier islands to help expedite efforts.
  • Following Governor DeSantis’ authorization, over 5,200 Florida Guardsmen have been activated to State Active Duty for Hurricane Ian response operations. Up to 2,000 Guardsmen from neighboring states are also activated to assist. The Florida National Guard are supporting a total of 152 active missions.
  • Several POD sites became operational as of 10/1, distributing food, water, and ice to local populations:
    • 406 pallets of water distributed
    • 347 pallets of food distributed
    • 62 pallets of ice distributed

Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM)

  • FDEM is identifying locations and resource needs for Points of Distribution (POD) in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands, Lee, and Sarasota counties. More than 829,000 MREs and 3.8 million bottles of water have been distributed so far. PODs open today include:
  • FDEM is working with feeding partners to open kitchens for impacted and displaced residents. On Saturday, October 1, more than 69,700 hot meals were served on-scene at food banks in Alachua, Brevard, Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Hardee, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Miami-Dade, Orange, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota, Seminole and Union counties.
  • Through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), more than 1,800 personnel from 26 states have deployed to Florida to assist in response and recovery efforts.
  • FDEM has activated the State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) to provide an additional resource for Floridians to receive up-to-date information regarding Hurricane Ian. Residents and visitors can call this toll-free hotline at 1-800-342-3557.
  • FDEM Recovery staff are conducting rapid damage assessments in Charlotte, Flagler, Glades, Hendry, Highlands, Putnam and Osceola counties to expedite available federal assistance for disaster recovery.
  • FDEM has eight active fuel depots and is staging an additional four fuel depots today throughout Central and Southwest Florida to ensure first responders have the fuel they need to conduct search and rescue operations. More than 1.4 million gallons of fuels have been mobilized.
  • FDEM Liaisons have been deployed to county EOCs in Brevard, Charlotte, Dixie, Hardee, Hillsborough, Lee, Pinellas, Sarasota and Seminole counties.
  • FDEM is leading the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) for the Hurricane Ian response, with more than 350 SERT members staffing the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC).
  • FDEM has received more than 3,400 resource requests for Hurricane Ian and fulfilled. Over 2,900 of these requests are currently being processed and are either en route or being mobilized. This includes the coordination of resources such as: trucks of food and water, generators and water pumps.
  • FDEM is mobilizing pet food and supplies for displaced pets, including: rabies vaccines, dry and canned dog food, dry and canned cat food, cat litter, disposable pet bowls and disposable leashes.
  • FDEM is deploying the following resources for distribution to impacted areas:
  • More than 4,000 gallons of diesel to Lee County to power water plants that provide water to nearby hospitals
  • Drone teams to assess flooded areas
  • 500 traffic barrels to Charlotte County to safely modify traffic patterns
  • More than 400 bottles of oxygen to Charlotte County.
  • 255 ambulances
  • 200 trucks of food, water and ice
  • 200 large generators
  • 2 full service mechanical shops
  • 500,000 tarps
  • 375 kits for parents of infants and toddlers with critical supplies that will last for 10 days each
  • Four mobile triage units to Miami-Dade County
  • Five truckloads of blankets and five truckloads of cots to support displaced residents
  • FDEM is currently coordinating the provision of meals for first responders staged in Orange County.
  • FDEM is in constant communication with all 67 county emergency management offices and state agencies to coordinate recovery actions and needed resources as communities experience storm impacts.

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Power

  • There are currently 840,00 million people without power.
  • More than 1.8 million accounts have already been restored across Florida.
  • For a full report on current outages, click here.
  • 42,000 linemen from utilities across the state are working 24/7 to restore power.
  • 325 Florida Highway Patrol are transporting utility crews.

Health and Human Services

  • As of today, 21 health care facilities previously evacuated have returned and are operational.
  • Currently, 12 special needs shelters remain open, serving more than 875 clients, caregivers, and staff. Special needs shelters are designed to meet the needs of clients who require assistance that exceeds services provided at a general population shelter. 
  • DOH deployed targeted paid ads on Facebook and Instagram to counties impacted from Hurricane Ian. These ads reinforce the importance of knowing the risks factors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.  
  • Since Hurricane Ian made landfall, 642 patients were evacuated from 6 health care facilities in Charlotte, Lee, Sarasota, Orange, and Volusia County. These facilities cannot safely operate while sustaining critical damage to their infrastructure from Hurricane Ian.
  • Visits are being conducted at all health care facilities in counties impacted by Hurricane Ian. As of this morning, we have completed 122 assessments at facilities in Collier, Lee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Hardee, and Desoto county.
  • Secretary Simone Marstiller has signed Emergency Order 22-002 extending the deadline for the submission of letters of agreement required for the Supplemental payment programs, this can be found here.
  • To support hospitals in Lee County without potable water, Florida is shuttling 1.2 million gallons of water on 20 trucks from Lakeland to Fort Myers.
  • DOEA is mobilizing Hope Heroes to volunteer in areas of need and through telephone reassurance to support the senior population. To become a Hope Hero volunteer, visit helpcreatehope.com.
  • DOH has partnered with Volunteer Florida to develop an online portal for health care practitioners who wish to volunteer their expertise, skills, and experience in areas impacted by Hurricane Ian.
  • Boil Water Notices have been issued for 120 areas, over 22 counties, following the impacts from Hurricane Ian. DOH continues to monitor and maintain a comprehensive statewide list of notices for residents to access online. 
  • DOH in Seminole County opened a shelter for children with enhanced medical needs, including those on ventilators, serving over 80 registered pediatric clients.  
  • AHCA has activated reporting in the Health Facility Reporting System (HFRS) and is requesting all health care providers report their census, available beds, evacuation status and generator status information. This information allows AHCA to assist health care providers in transferring patients if needed and ensure health care providers in impacted areas have the necessary resources and adequate power.
  • Nearly 400 ambulances, paratransit busses, and support vehicles are responding to areas of anticipated landfall.
  • The Agency sent a Medicaid Provider Alert outlining Key Medicaid Information for Fee-For-Service and Managed Care Providers during Hurricane Ian, this can be found here.
  • AHCA has activated the Emergency Patient Look-Up System (E-PLUS).  Special needs shelters for 16 counties are able to utilize the system to retrieve patient medical records. E-PLUS is also available to assist medical providers and emergency response personnel with locating missing or displaced persons after the storm.
  • The State Surgeon General has signed a letter to allow staff of the Department and Agency for Health Care Administration to travel past curfews across state lines to conduct any necessary health and safety actions, this can be found here.
  • AHCA has identified Home Medical Equipment providers that can assist with supplying oxygen supplies to Special Needs Shelters.
  • As of today, 100% of operating long-term care facilities have a generator on-site. The Generator Status Map for long-term care facilities is available here.
  • The state has been monitoring several healthcare facilities on generator power, two healthcare facilities are in the process of evacuating.
  • 400 additional nurses are moving into southwest Florida to assist.
  • 345 health care facilities have had power restored since the onset of the event.
  • Secretary Simone Marstiller has signed Emergency Order 22-001 suspending statutes or rules pertaining to level 2 background screening made necessary by Hurricane Ian. This allows health care facilities to deploy out of state health care workers to the same roles in Florida during the emergency. This can be found here.
  • 7 APD-licensed group homes recently relocated due to power outages for a total of 57 APD-licensed group homes that are evacuated.
  • 50 APD-licensed group homes that originally evacuated have returned back to their homes. 50 APD-licensed group homes remain evacuated.
  • The APD Suncoast Region has checked on the health and safety of 700 clients who live independently.
  • DOEA CARES Assessors have now been deployed to assist in shelters in SW Florida.
  • Department of Elder Affairs is coordinating with the EOC to provide additional water and shelf-stable meals to affected areas for seniors; Aging Network providers will be distributing to senior clients.
  • DOEA has coordinated with the EOC to provide a generator to get the Area Agency on Aging of Southwest Florida online so some administration functions may resume.
  • In the Central Florida region, the Senior Resource Alliance has partnered with the faith-based network to distribute clothing and food and is working with Goodwill to provide clothing and remove debris from the homes of senior residents. The agency is using volunteers from AmeriCorps to establish “Hope Dialers,” a phone resource and reassurance network to aid older Floridians in recovery.
  • DOEA is working with DCF to provide a questionnaire that will catalog need as the state works to provide telecom assistance to those areas without service.
  • The Office of Public and Professional Guardians is checking in with public guardian offices to ensure wards are safe and needs are met.
  • Agencies from unaffected areas are identifying staff that can be deployed to impacted areas.
  • All providers in Pasco-Pinellas counties, Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties expect to be fully functioning on Monday.
  • Senior Connection Center provider in Hardee and Highlands County is working with the Emergency Operations Center to get food and water to distribute to seniors in their counties.
  • The Elder Helpline, 1-800-96-ELDER, is still active during business hours, and after hours/weekend calls are being returned the following business day. Seniors may call for assistance with non-emergency needs.
  • Some Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida service providers and staff are without power and still assessing operability to reopen services in Sarasota, Collier, and Glades counties.
  • Several thousand shelf stable meals will be delivered this weekend to Pasco and Pinellas county for seniors; currently assessing needs with SW Florida for additional meals.
  • The Lee County Healthcare Center, as well as the Naples and Port Charlotte VA clinics, will remain closed until further notice. Those U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs clinics sustained significant damage from the hurricane and, as a result, may remain closed longer than initially anticipated. Staff will continue working diligently to assess the impact at all our locations and safely restore our operations. 
  • The VA Outpatient Clinic in Daytona Beach will also remain closed until further notice.  
  • DOH has deployed 5 teams of 2 to conduct nursing home facility assessments, in support of AHCA, to Lee, Charlotte, Collier, and Sarasota counties. Lee county assessments were completed on Thursday. The assessments for the remaining facilities are ongoing.
  • DOH is assessing its programs and community resources such as WIC, Healthy Start, and pharmacy operations to ensure continued access to critical health-related services.
  • DOH’s Healthy Start Coalitions are working with county health departments and county emergency managers to assist with any infant formula needs in impacted communities.
  • Alternative solutions for powdered formulas are being implemented, which may include pre-mixed formulas or supplemental drinking water in addition to powdered formulas.
  • DOH is monitoring emergency department data for priority health conditions that may need additional public health response and public messaging in impacted areas. Priority health conditions include carbon monoxide poisonings, injuries, gastrointestinal illnesses, animal/insect bites, respiratory complications, and mental health.
  • The Regional Poison Control Centers, 1-800-222-1222, remain available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to assess, triage, and manage poison information and exposure calls. DOH continues to monitor calls to assess where additional support is needed.
  • DOH has deployed health advisories and resources to assist the public in identifying potential hazards that may be present following the aftermath of Hurricane Ian. Resources have been distributed to local communities and are available through social media channels and online.
  • DOH continues to expedite health care licensing for priority professions such as physicians, osteopathic physicians, physician assistants, advanced practice registered nurses, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, certified nursing assistants, pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, paramedics, emergency medical technicians, and mental health professionals.
  • DOH is supporting local 911 dispatch efforts by providing an additional 40 ambulances to local emergency county EMS providers.
  • The State Surgeon General signed Emergency Order 22-004 authorizing licensed health care professionals in good standing from out of state to practice in Florida for the duration of the EO. These professionals include: Physicians, Osteopathic Physicians, Physician Assistants, Advanced Practice Registered Nurses, Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Certified Nursing Assistants, Paramedics, and Emergency Medical Technicians. In addition, the following licensed health care professionals are authorized to practice in Florida via Telehealth: Physicians, Osteopathic Physicians, Physician Assistants, and Advanced Practice Nurses. The EO can be found here.
  • DOH has coordinated with the Office of Insurance Regulation to distribute an alert regarding permitted early prescription refills during a State of Emergency. This alert was sent to health insurers, managed care organizations, health entities, and licensed health care providers. The alert can be found here.
  • DOH has coordinated with Federal partners to support the deployment of nearly 100 individuals through various health and medical teams. These teams stand ready in Orlando, Atlanta, and Warner Robbins Air Force Base in Georgia.
  • As of 1:46 PM EST on Oct. 2, 2022, DOH and AHCA’s Patient Movement Mission and other partners have evacuated  individuals. Currently, 123 health care facilities are actively evacuating individuals in areas of impacted from Hurricane Ian. The Department continues to assess and support evacuations as needed.
  • DOH has deployed 8 environmental health strike teams to support DeSoto, Sarasota, Hendry, Manatee, Highlands, Charlotte, St. Johns and Lee counties to conduct field assessments to evaluate environmental and public health risks. They are trained to identify issues with generator safety, drinking water contamination, and other safety hazards.
  • DOH continues to direct Florida health care practitioners interested in volunteering to the Volunteer Florida registration portal.
  • DOH’s Healthy Start Coalitions distributed pack and plays, diapers, wipes, and formula to shelters and continue to monitor the needs of the surrounding communities.
  • The Newborn Screening Laboratory in Jacksonville will be operational today and tomorrow to offset closures due to Hurricane Ian. Normal operations will resume on Monday, Oct. 3, 2022.
  • DOH in Orange County is facilitating the movement of children with special needs to Nemours Children’s Hospital.
  • DOH in Seminole County with community partners opened a shelter for children with enhanced medical needs, including those on ventilators, serving over 80 registered pediatric clients.
  • More than 450 emergency medical service vehicles have been provided to impacted counties and are being used to respond to community needs. 
  • Emergency medical services staff are engaged in the tasks required to marshal and deploy ground and air EMS assets for disaster response. DOH’s Division of Emergency Preparedness and Community Support has handled mission requests to assist hospital and health care facility evacuations as well as special needs shelter requests for patient movements. Requests are ongoing and include augmentation of day-to-day EMS services for impacted areas.  
  • Alachua and Pasco County health departments are assisting with providing oxygen to locations statewide, as needed. 
  • DOH’s Office of Children Medical Services provided expedited translation services in Spanish and Haitian Creole, on topics such as carbon monoxide safety, boil water notices and food safety, to ensure public safety.
  • DCF is partnering with its community based care lead agencies to contact all caregivers/foster families with dependent children in their home to assess needs and ensure safety.
  • DCF has opened four Family Resource Support Centers with staff on site, including Hope Navigators, behavioral health partners who specialize in disaster recovery response, and public benefit eligibility specialists to help individuals and families. More information can be found here: www.myflfamilies.com/frsc
    • Locations include: New Port Richey, Tampa, Orlando, and Palmetto
  • The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services announced Thursday additional resources and flexibilities available in response to Hurricane Ian in the State of Florida. More information can be found at: CMS Announces Resources and Flexibilities to Assist with the Public Health Emergency in the State of Florida

Infrastructure

  • FDOT is working to assist Lee County to expedite emergency repairs to the road and bridges that provide motorists access to Pine Island.
  • Cut and Toss crews cleared over 4,746 miles (88% complete) of state roadways. Continue to listen to local law enforcement and county officials for potential detours
  • Debris removal has begun, most heavily focused in Southwest Florida.
  • I-75 from mile marker 179 to 193 remains open to all traffic.
  • FDOT bridge inspectors continue to inspect bridges. Currently, 2,507 bridges have been inspected.
  • All High Priority Bridges Cleared in Tampa Bay, Southwest Florida, Northeast, and Central Florida
  • Projects under construction in the following counties can resume activities:
    • Alachua, Bay, Baker, Bradford, Brevard, Broward, Calhoun, Clay, Columbia, Dixie, Duval, Escambia, Flagler, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Holmes, Indian River, Jackson, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lake, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Marion, Martin, Miami Dade, Monroe, Nassau, Okaloosa, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Putnam,  Santa Rosa, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Seminole, Sumter Suwannee, Taylor, Union, Volusia, Wakulla, Walton, Washington

Road and Bridges

Current Major Road and Bridge Closures. The list of closures as of 3:00 p.m., 10/2/22 is listed below. Up-to-date closures listed on FL511.com: 

Charlotte County

  • SR-45 Southbound from Parmley Street to Main Street – All lanes closed
  • Tamiami Trail Southbound at Peace River – All lanes closed
  • US-41 Southbound at Peace River Bridge – All lanes closed

DeSoto County

  • NE Highway 70 at SE Mahon Avenue – Lane closed, both directions
  • SR-70 from CR-661 to N Baldwin Avenue – Lane closed, both directions
  • SR-70 at NW Lily Avenue – Lane closed, both directions
  • SR-72 from CR-661 to SR-70 – Lane closed, both directions
  • SR-72 from Myakka Valley Trail to NW Flint Road – Lane closed
  • SR-72 at SW Gator Trail – Lane closed, both directions
  • US-17 Northbound beyond CR-760 – All lanes closed
  • US-17 Northbound from SW Welles Avenue to SW Fletcher Street – All lanes closed, both directions
  • US-17 Southbound from CR-760 to SW Fletcher Street – All lanes Closed

 Flagler County

  • S Oceanshore Boulevard at S 15th Street – Lane closed, both directions

Hardee County

  • SR-64 at Parnell Road – All lanes closed, both directions
  • SR-64 at Old Town Creek Road – Lane closed, both directions
  • SR-64 Eastbound at Golfview Drive – Lane closed
  • SR-64 at Peace River – Lane closed, both directions
  • SR-64 from Florida Cracker Trail to School House Road – Lane closed, both directions
  • SR-636 from N. 5th Avenue to SR-64- Lane closed- both directions
  • US-17 at Bronco Drive – All lanes closed, both directions
  • US-17 from 9th Avenue W to Moffitt Road – All lanes closed, both directions

 Lee County

  • Pine Island Road Bridge (SR-78/Pine Island Road at Matlacha Draw Bridge)
  • Sanibel Causeway
  • Bonita Beach Road at Simmons Lane – All lanes closed
  • CR-865 at Broadway Channel – Lane closed, both directions
  • Estero Boulevard at Broadway Channel – Lane closed, both directions
  • SR-867/McGregor Boulevard Northbound beyond Winkler Road – All lanes closed

 Manatee County

  • SR-37 at Manatee/Polk County Line – Lane closed, both directions
  • SR-70 at County Line Road – Lane closed, both directions

 Orange County

  • I-4 Eastbound at Lake Ivanhoe – Lane closed
  • SR-528 Westbound at Exit 12: SR-551/Goldenrod Road North Bound – On and Off-ramp closed

 Osceola County

  • I-4 Eastbound at MM 65/Osceola Parkway – On-ramp closed
  • Pleasant Hill Road at Northgate Drive – All lanes closed, both directions

 Polk County

  • 6th Street Northbound at Mirror Terrace NW – All lanes closed
  • Lucerne Park Road at Lucerne Loop – Lane closed, both directions
  • SR-17 before and beyond Hunt Brothers Road – All lanes closed
  • SR-37 Northbound before SR-674 – All lanes closed
  • SR-544 before and beyond US-27 – All lanes closed, both directions
  • US-98 at Laurel Lane – Lane closed

 Sarasota County

  • CR-780 at Sinclair Drive – Lane closed, both directions
  • CR-780 at Manatee/Sarasota County Line – Bridge closed
  • N Indiana Avenue Southbound from Old Englewood Road to Alameda Grande – All lanes closed
  • SR-72 before Myakka State Park Road – All lanes closed, both directions
  • SR-776 Southbound beyond Old Englewood Road – All lanes closed
  • SR-776 at N Elm Street – All lanes closed, both directions

 Seminole County

  • SR-46 Eastbound at N Jungle Road – Lane closed

 Volusia County

  • LPGA Boulevard between US-92 and Royal County Boulevard
  • US-1 Southbound at Kennedy Parkway – All lanes closed

NOW OPEN

  • Manatee County
    • SR-70 Eastbound at Verna Bethany Road
  • Orange County
    • N Kenansville Road at Vickers Road
  • Polk County
    • US-98 at US-17
  • Seminole County
    • Oviedo Road at Walsh Street
  • Volusia County
    • SR-46 Westbound at Morgan Alderman Road 

Ports:  

  • All ports are now OPEN
  • All port fuel terminals have resumed normal operations

Airports

Current status is listed below. Please go to your airline’s website for re-booking and other flight information. 

  • Operations normal except for:
    • Punta Gorda Airport – Closed
    • Southwest Florida International Airport – Closed  

Transit and Rail 

  • Operations normal except for:
    • Charlotte County (regular service resumes 10/3)
    • LeeTran
    • Sarasota County Area Transit
    • Lynx (modified service)
    • Votran (modified service)
    • Flagler
    • Levy County
    • St. Johns County
    • Citrus County
    • SunRail (anticipating running a limited service 10/3)
    • Amtrak service suspended in Florida

Freight Rail

  • CSX special weather inspections were completed and determined there are no main line disruptions
  • Seminole Gulf Railway sustained significant damage

Mass Care

  • Feeding Tampa Bay is delivering 4 pallets of water and 4 pallets of MREs for seniors in Hardee and Highlands county on Monday. Senior Connection Center and local service providers will deliver the aid to 100 clients in Hardee county and 250 clients in Highlands county.
  • The Adult Care Food Program has submitted a waiver to USDA requesting flexibilities in the meal pattern on a case-by case basis. This flexibility will allow Adult Day Care providers to continue to serve participants when food shortages or caterer closures occur. The waiver is currently pending USDA approval.
  • 295 truckloads of food and water are on their way into affected areas, including 40 truckloads of ice headed to Central Florida.
  • Over 3.5 million meals and over 1.8 million gallons of bottled water are being deployed to impacted areas.
  • DCF released $235,351,849 in early SNAP benefits to a household population of approximately 773,579 people at risk of impact for Hurricane Ian. More information can be found here: ACCESS Florida – Florida Department of Children and Families (myflfamilies.com)
  • DEO announced that work search reporting, waiting week, and Employ Florida registration requirements for Reemployment Assistance claims have been temporarily waived for Floridians impacted by Hurricane Ian in FEMA disaster-declared counties.
  • Applications for DUA are being accepted from residents and businesses in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Hardee, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Orange, Osceola, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, and Volusia counties.
  • Eligible Floridians may apply for Reemployment Assistance and Disaster Unemployment Assistance Today, October 1, 2022, until 6 p.m. and Sunday, October 2, 2022, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Starting October 3, 2022, CONNECT will be available Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., and Sunday 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. To file a claim, go to www.FloridaJobs.org and select “File a Claim”, visit a local CareerSource Career Center, or call 1-800-385-3920.
  • DCF is pursuing federal waivers to assist with food assistance benefits (SNAP).  Once approved, information will be provided about accessing these benefits. The Department is pursuing the following waivers to assist individuals/families:
  • Disaster SNAP allows affected Floridians to be eligible for food assistance due to loss of income due to Hurricane Ian.
  • Automatic replacement of 70% of September food assistance benefit for Floridians impacted by Hurricane Ian who did not receive an early release of SNAP benefits. Floridians who are not eligible for the automatic replacement can request a replacement of a portion of their September food assistance due to food loss.
  • The ability to use SNAP benefits to purchase hot food.  Typically, food assistance benefits can only be used to buy unprepared foods, such as breads, cereals, meats, fruits, vegetables, and poultry. 
  • 34 licensed group homes have been evacuated across the state.
  • DCF is hosting daily calls with Managing Entities and Community Based Care lead agencies to remain apprised of all storm updates.
  • Florida Housing Finance Corporation has updated its Disaster Relief webpage to provide families with information on housing resources and assistance. This webpage will continue to be updated as more information becomes available. Disaster Relief Resources and Information (floridahousing.org).
  • Florida Housing has ensured that all current listings are up to date in the event that families need to quickly relocate at www.FloridaHousingSearch.org.
  • Each SHIP office has an adopted disaster strategy that allows for assistance in the immediate aftermath of a declared disaster. Strategies may include temporary relocation and rental assistance, debris removal and short-term repairs to prevent further damage to the structure or to allow for occupancy until further repairs are made. Please contact your local office directly for more information: Local Government Information (floridahousing.org)

Law Enforcement

  • FDLE staging areas are open in Southwest Florida and Hardee County at the Lee County Sports Complex, Weigh Station Mile Marker 161 in Charlotte County and in Hardee, at the Civic Center in Wauchula.  All deployed law enforcement officers in these areas should check in at one of these staging areas for work assignments. 
  • FDLE’s mutual aid team is coordinating the deployment of more than 1,200 law enforcement officers statewide from more than 50 agencies.
  • FDLE’s mutual aid team are supporting 185 hurricane response missions.
  • More than 100 FDLE agents are deployed in Southwest Florida assisting with traffic control, security needs and law enforcement check-ins. 
  • Florida’s State Law Enforcement Radio System is fully operational.
  • FDLE forensic scientists in the FDLE Fort Myers Regional Operations Center have verified that all evidence is safe and secured. 
  • FDLE’s base camp in Lee County is fully operational serving first responders deployed to the area.  Base camps include meal service, sleeping quarters, showers, laundry and restroom facilities. 
  • More than 100 FDLE agents are deployed in Southwest Florida assisting with traffic control, security needs and law enforcement check-ins. 
  • FHP continues to assist FDOT with bridge and road closures across impacted areas.
  • FHP continues to provide escorts for fuel, utility, and emergency response teams to provide critical resources to the impacted areas.
  • FHP is assisting multiple local agencies with law enforcement functions in the impacted areas.
  • FHP has deployed a mobile kitchen to feed first responders in Hardee County.
  • FHP has deployed a mobile command center to the State Emergency Operations Centers and southwest Florida to provide enhanced communication capabilities and additional resources.
  • More than 1,700 sworn FHP members are ready to assist with enhanced evacuation and response efforts.
  • FHP has activated 12-hour Alpha, Bravo shifts for more than 950 Troopers throughout Florida.
  • FHP has deployed approximately 200 Quick Response Force Troopers to affected areas to aid search and rescue efforts.
  • FHP is strategically utilizing high-water rescue vehicles to aid search and rescue and damage assessment efforts.
  • FHP has strategically using its fixed-wing aircraft to monitor traffic routes and to aid search and rescue and damage assessment efforts.
  • FHP has deployed its unmanned aerial vehicle teams to assist in search and rescue and damage assessment efforts.
  • FHP Regional Communications Centers are preparing to perform take-over services for other impacted FHP dispatch centers to ensure all state law enforcement officers continue to receive dispatch services.
  • FHP is providing liaisons to affected county emergency operations centers.
  • FHP encourages evacuating motorists to report disabled vehicles or dangerous driving conditions to *FHP (*347).
  • FLHSMV is deploying Florida Licensing on Wheels (FLOW) units to Lee County to provide no-fee driver license and identification credentials, vehicle registrations and titles, and vessel registrations and titles to impacted individuals.
    • FLOW Location: Hertz Arena, 1000 Everblades Parkway, Estero, FL 3392.
    • Additional details on hours of operation will be released when finalized. 
  • FLHSMV driver license and motor vehicle service center closures can be found here.
  • FLHSMV has issued Emergency Order 092422, which waives specific requirements for commercial motor vehicles providing emergency relief; and
  • Waives the replacement fees for driver’s license and identification credentials, vehicle registrations and titles, vessel registrations and titles and temporary parking permits for impacted individuals.
  • FWC has established a field base of operations in Lee County and deployed a mobile command center and 6 BERG units to provide communications and operational support to officers in the area while they respond to calls for assistance.
  • Approximately 120 FWC officers and support personnel are currently deployed for Hurricane Ian response and recovery efforts.
  • FWC officers have teamed up with US Coast Guard and National Guard air assets to perform rescues, deliver emergency supplies, and support personnel, services, and equipment to Sanibel Island.
  • FWC officers are conducting search and rescue patrol on Sanibel Island.
  • FWC officers are using vessels to transport additional rescue personnel, supplies, and equipment to all affected barrier islands inaccessible to vehicles.
  • In DeSoto and Hardee Counties, FWC officers are responding to significant inland flooding along the Peace River.
  • 9 FWC Special Operations Group officers from the North Central Region have deployed with vessels and equipment to Volusia County to assist with response and recovery efforts.
  • FWC captive wildlife investigators continue to check and aid captive wildlife facilities located in the affected area.
  • In addition to public safety missions, FWC Special Operations Group (SOG) teams are serving as reconnaissance units for the State EOC and reporting back on the damage.
  • FWC Aviation Section is providing the EOC with aerial assistance, reconnaissance and post-storm damage assessments.
  • FDLE regional support and logistics teams throughout the state are preparing to deploy personnel and equipment for a ready response to the aftermath of the storm. FDLE has started pre-staging equipment and mobile command posts at strategic locations. Teams with chainsaws, tarps, and other supplies are assembling.

Private Sector Support

  • Work search reporting and other requirements for Reemployment Assistance claims have been temporarily waived for Floridians impacted by Hurricane Ian in FEMA disaster-declared counties. Disaster Unemployment Assistance is also available for individuals and businesses in FEMA disaster-declared counties. Eligible Floridians must file for regular state Reemployment Assistance benefits before filing for DUA. Learn more here.
  • Partners including Walmart and Publix have indicated that they are constantly bringing additional supplies into the state to restock inventory.
  • On Saturday, October 1, 2022, 65 individuals participated on the ESF-18 private-sector to share critical updates with the DEO and ESF-18 team related to supply chain issues, emergency inventory issues, business closures, and exemplary efforts to assist impacted Floridians during this time.
  • T-Mobile has four Community Support Trucks loaded with supplies including chargers, charging cords and cell phones, as well as three wi-fi trailers with the ability to charge up to 80 phones each, along with Wi-Fi. These assets are staged just outside of the impact area and will be deployed as soon as it is safe to do so. Most T-Mobile customers are on plans with unlimited talk, text, and data, for those who aren’t, T-Mobile continues to offer unlimited talk, text, and data starting September 28 through October 3 for those most impacted by the storm.  Text to Give opportunities are also available and the most updated information from T-Mobile can be found at https://www.t-mobile.com/news/community/hurricane-ian.
  • Verizon residential and small business customers in affected ZIP codes impacted by Hurricane Ian will have access to unlimited domestic Talk, Text & Data through October 4, 2022. Click here to see eligible zip codes. Verizon Wireless’ crisis response team will also provide free communications support to public safety agencies responding to the hurricane, setting up portable cell sites, Wi-Fi hotspots, free charging stations and other services. Stay updated on Verizon’s efforts here.
  • Publix has delivered more than 700 truckloads of water equal to almost a million cases, delivered more than 3 million pounds of ice, and is storing double inventory volumes. Prior to closing stores impacted by the storm, Publix donated perishable products to local police, firefighters, and emergency response teams, and also ensured that associates that work nearby and prepare these stores for the storm received donated product for themselves and their families. Publix associates have diligently taken care of their customers, communities, and each other.
  • The following Publix Supermarkets are closed at this time:
    • Calusa Cay, 5100 Pine Island Rd NW, Bokeelia, FL
    • Merchants Crossing, 1500 Placida Rd Ste C, Englewood, FL
    • San Carlos, 16950 San Carlos Blvd, Fort Myers, FL
    • Sanibel Beach Place, 20321 Summerlin Rd, Fort Myers, FL
    • Fort Myers Beach, 4791 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL
    • Heron Creek Towne Center, 1291 S Sumter Blvd, North Port, FL
  •  AT&T is waiving talk, text, and data overage charges for AT&T Postpaid & PREPAID customers with billing addresses in 828 zip codes across Florida from September 28, 2022, through October 28, 2022, to keep customers connected.
    • To assist the recovery, AT&T is now welcoming other carriers’ customers to roam on AT&T networks so they can connect, even if their carrier’s service isn’t available after the storm. Once this roaming begins, customers will automatically be connected to AT&T network.
    • At this time, only four AT&T store locations in Sarasota, Naples, Port Charlotte, and Venice are closed.  All other store locations in the impacted area and around the state are open and ready to address customer needs.
  • Walmart, Sam’s Club, and the Walmart Foundation are committing up to $6 million to Hurricane Ian recovery and relief efforts, with $1.5 million toward the Florida Disaster Fund. This support will include donations of essential supplies and grants to organizations providing relief on the ground. Walmart will provide a 1:1 match contribution (up to $2.5 million) when customers, members, and associates donate at registers or through Walmart and Sam’s Club associate giving program.
  • Walmart has activated Disaster Displacement Assistance for impacted associates to assist them in evacuating to safety. Walmart Transportation has positioned 400 drivers in Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia to support recovery efforts. Walmart and Sam’s Club have pushed more than $23 million in additional water and disaster related merchandise ahead of the storm, including over 660 truckloads of additional water and disaster related merchandise ahead of the storm.  A public-facing map showing store and club closures that updates in real-time has been published at Hurricane Ian Facility Status (walmart.com). 
  • Walmart Health and Wellness services are available at the following locations: 
    • Store 2881, 904 B Cypress Pkwy, Kissimmee, FL
    • Store 857, 3647 S Orlando Dr, Sanford, FL
    • Store 3418, 28516 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel, FL
    • Store 2387, 11108 Causeway Blvd, Brandon, FL
  • Water is available at the following Walmart locations:
    • Store 721, 19100 Murdock Cir., Port Charlotte, FL
    • Store 811, 2725 SE Highway 70, Arcadia, FL
  • All Walmart/Sam’s Club stores are open to assist customers, except for the following stores:
    • Iona/Fort Myers Walmart Supercenter
    • Englewood Walmart Supercenter
    • Venice Walmart Supercenter
    • Cape Coral North Neighborhood Marke
    • Fort Myers/Cape Coral Neighborhood Marke
    • North Port/Heron Creek Neighborhood Marke
  • Rosen Hotels and Resorts is activating their Florida Residents Distressed Rates to give Floridians a safe, affordable place to ride out Hurricane Ian. Evacuees can call 866-33-ROSEN (76736) to reserve a room.
  • Rosen Hotels and Resorts is activating their Florida Residents Distressed Rates to give Floridians a safe, affordable place to ride out Hurricane Ian. Evacuees can call 866-33-ROSEN (76736) to reserve a room.
  • VISIT Florida has activated the Emergency Accommodations Portal at Expedia.com/Florida, which is updated with the latest information on available listings.
  • Comcast has opened Xfinity WiFi hotspots in Central, North and Southwest Florida, and the Panhandle for Xfinity customers and non-customers to stay connected during and after the storm. Details are available at Florida.Comcast.com/2022/09/27/comcast-opens-free-xfinity-wifi-hotspot-network-as-hurricane-ian-approaches/.
  • The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association is getting the word out to lodging establishments to relax their pet policies and to share that there are still available hotels and other lodging available from Tallahassee to Pensacola and Palm Beach, Broward, and Dade.
  • Enterprise Florida, Inc. (EFI) is in regular communication with seaport, rail, airport, fuel, and power providers to coordinate between public and private sector partners ensuring that assistance, goods, and services during and after the storm are being delivered.
  • UHaul is offering 30 days of free storage and U-Box container usage at 43 Florida locations. Find additional information at www.uhaul.com/about/ listed under “Top Stories.”
  • Uber, is offering round-trip rides to and from Southwest Florida shelter locations in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Manatee, Pasco, Lee, Charlotte, Sarasota, Orange, Brevard, Seminole, Volusia, and Osceola counties listed at www.FloridaDisaster.org/PlanPrepare/Shelters. Riders can enter promotional code IANRELIEF in the app to redeem a free round-trip up to $30 each way. Rides must be requested to or from any state-approved evacuation shelter in Florida.
  • DEO is updating www.FloridaDisaster.biz with real-time information for business owners to prepare their businesses, families, and employees for Hurricane Ian.
  • DEO has alerted the statewide Community Action Agency (CAA) Network to initiate disaster preparedness activities following the Emergency Order.
  • DEO’s Secretary Dane Eagle distributed a memo on Tuesday, September 27, 2022, releasing $1.4 million in Low-Income Home Energy Assistant Program (LIHEAP) set-aside emergency funding for use by LIHEAP providers across the state to support preparedness activities such as transportation and temporary housing to preserve health and safety.
  • DEO’s Rebuild Florida team continues to monitor Hurricane Ian and is preparing to remobilize their disaster recovery efforts following a safe passage after the storm.
  • CareerSource Florida is reaching out to assess needs at local workforce development board partners in counties impacted by Hurricane Ian. We will be working closely with our partners at DEO to support recovery efforts and help connect affected residents with temporary employment and other recovery assistance.
  • The following local workforce development boards are temporarily closed due to Hurricane Ian:
    • CareerSource Gulf Coast – Gulf and Bay Co. centers
    • CareerSource North Florida – Live Oak, Mayo and Madison centers
    • CareerSource Florida Crown – Dixie and Columbia centers
    • CareerSource Northeast Florida
    • CareerSource North Central Florida
    • CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion
    • CareerSource Flagler Volusia
    • CareerSource Brevard
    • CareerSource Pinellas
    • CareerSource Tampa Bay
    • CareerSource Pasco Hernando
    • CareerSource Polk
    • CareerSource Suncoast
    • CareerSource Heartland
    • CareerSource Research Coase – Indian River and Martin centers
    • CareerSource Southwest Florida
  • VISIT FLORIDA has activated its Emergency Accommodations Module on Expedia to provide real-time hotel availability and lodging resources for impacted Floridians and visitors.
  • VISIT FLORIDA is working with Expedia and their partners to encourage flexible pet policies and cancellation/change fees.
  • Enterprise Florida activated its Disaster Assistance page with a list of state and federal resources available for businesses to utilize in their mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery activities.
  • DEO’s Bureau of Economic Self-Sufficiency (BESS) team is actively engaging the Communication Action Agency (CAA) network executive leadership to assess their organization and staff safety status as well as county specific needs in their coverage areas.
  • DEO’s Rebuild Florida team will perform updated damage assessments beginning next week for active Irma projects in an effort to evaluate any new or subsequent damage from Hurricane Ian. Construction crews may benefit from an authorization letter or passage approval in order to enter and resume construction in Hurricane Ian-impacted areas.
  • Target is working quickly to ensure its team members are safe and is mobilizing its supply chain to fast-track critical supplies to Target stores. Target is also working with its team members, guests, and regional partners in the coming days to help ensure that all communities impacted by Hurricane Ian have the resources they need to support recovery and rebuilding.
  • All Target store locations are open to serve customers, except for stores located in: 
    • Port Charlotte
    • Southwest Fort Myers
    • Sarasota University Parkway
  • The Trump International Beach Resort in Sunny Isles has implemented special discounted rates for Floridians needing accommodations in the wake of Hurricane Ian. The resort welcomes pets under 40 pounds, and as a condo hotel, offers kitchens and laundry facilities in all of their rooms. To book a reservation, please call 866-976-0383 or use the following link: https://bit.ly/3E4sV0o
  • Charter Communications has opened Spectrum Out-of-Home WiFi access points in response to Hurricane Ian. Spectrum WiFi access points are typically found in public parks, marinas, city streets and other public areas. A map of access points is available at spectrum.com/internet/wifi-access-points.
  • Anheuser-Busch has coordinated seven trucks – more than 360,000 cans – of emergency drinking water in response to Hurricane Ian.
  • The Lowe’s Command Center remains in full activation to support stores impacted by Hurricane Ian, moving more than 1000 trucks into impact zones, and continues to move much-needed response and recovery product, such as generators, water, gas cans, sand, plywood, batteries, flashlights, and other materials. All Lowe’s stores in Florida are now open; opening and closing hours are being monitored to ensure the safety of associates and customers. Additionally, Lowe’s has committed $2 million to support disaster relief efforts for associates, customers and communities in Florida. Funding will assist Lowe’s disaster relief partners and nonprofit Pro customers, helping these organizations and others provide critical relief and recovery supplies.
  • Wawa stores in Florida are providing free coffee and fountain beverages to all first responders in Florida, including police, fire, EMT and the National Guard for all they are doing to support and serve our communities during Hurricane Ian response and recovery efforts.
  • One of six locations in Lee County are closed. Find information on gas availability at Wawa.
  • Amazon has activated its Disaster Relief Hub, a special warehouse in Atlanta where the company prepositions over 1 million relief items most needed when a disaster strikes; loaded 10 trucks with over 360,000 bottles of water and strategically prepositioned the vehicles around Florida and in other southern U.S. states to quickly deliver clean water to impacted communities; and, reserved a parking lot at one of its Jacksonville, Florida, facilities to allow the American Red Cross to park up to 75 trailers to transport relief items as they’re needed.
  • Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association is working with food chains and restaurants to provide support for first responders and volunteers:
    • Chick-fil-a
    • Firehouse Subs
    • Burger King
    • McDonald’s
    • 4Rivers
    • Texas Roadhouse
    • Culver’s
    • Popeyes
    • Benihana
    • Anna Maria Oyster Bar
    • Great Southern
    • Darden
    • Brinker
    • Red Lobster
    • Waffle House
    • Bloomin Brands
  • Enterprise Florida activated its Disaster Assistance page with a list of state and federal resources available for businesses to utilize in their mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery activities.
  • Wells Fargo is donating $1 million from the Wells Fargo Foundation to aid four statewide organizations (American Red Cross, Feeding Florida, Florida Housing Coalition, and Volunteer Florida) providing urgent relief in Florida following the aftermath of Hurricane Ian. In addition, customer accommodations and employee support are available for those directly impacted by the storm.
    • 72 locations remine close. Repairing ATMs and deploying mobile ATMs to the hardest hit areas is a high priority.
  • Home Depot Command Center, with leaders in supply chain, HR, and operations, opened on Monday and has been sending additional supplies to Florida, checking on associates, and monitoring stores. More than 450 truckloads of emergency product (generators, gas cans, extension cords, batteries, tarps, lanterns, plywood, dry wall, water, etc.) have been sent to stores in the expected impact areas. Trucks are outside impacted areas so they can be moved in quickly after the storm. 
  • All Home Depot store locations are open, with modified hours.
  • CVS Pharmacy has re-opened a majority of its stores. Any CVS that is open in the impacted area can fill prescriptions.
  • Walgreens has mobilized its teams to respond. Patients can contact pharmacy staff 24/7 through Pharmacy Chat  https://walgreens.com/FindAStore and the mobile app as well as refill prescriptions and pick up at a nearby Walgreens pharmacy.
  • Open Walgreens in SWFL
    • Fort Myers – 1525 Colonial Boulevard; (239) 939-2191
    • Fort Myers – 3593 Cleveland Avenue; (239) 936-4741
    • Fort Myers – 4204 Palm Beach Boulevard; (239) 694-2114
    • Fort Myers – 6790 Daniels Parkway; (239) 433-4091
    • Fort Myers – 9150 Kings Crossing Road; (239) 285-1702
    • North Fort Myers – 6370 Bayshore Road; (239) 656-1424
    • Bonita Springs – 25091 S. Tamiami Trail; (239) 948-7532
    • Bonita Springs – 11494 Bonita Beach Road SE; (239) 992-3894
    • Naples – 13520 Tamiami Trail; (239) 593-6724
    • Naples – 8900 Tamiami Trail N; (239) 597-8196
    • Naples – 4673 Tamiami Trail N; (239) 649-6686
    • Naples – 2200 Tamiami Trail N; (239) 263-0240
    • Naples – 6029 Pine Ridge Road; (239) 352-2300
    • Naples – 30 Golden Gate Boulevard W; (239) 384-5141
    • Naples – 4747 Golden Gate Parkway; (239) 304-1154
    • Naples – 7301 Radio Road; (239) 353-2484
    • Lehigh Acres – 38 Homestead Road N; (239) 368-7186
    • Immokalee – 1450 Immokalee Drive; (239) 658-2362
    • Englewood – 2940 S McCall Road; (941) 475-8030
  • Winn Dixie (and associated liquor stores or pharmacies) locations in the impacted areas may be closed. View the open stores here: 
  • Work search reporting, waiting week, and Employ Florida registration requirements for Reemployment Assistance claims have been temporarily waived for Floridians impacted by Hurricane Ian in FEMA disaster-declared counties. 
  • Applications for DUA are being accepted from residents and businesses in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Hardee, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Orange, Osceola, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, and Volusia counties. Eligible Floridians may apply for Reemployment Assistance and Disaster Unemployment Assistance Today, October 1, 2022, until 6 p.m. and Sunday, October 2, 2022, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Starting October 3, 2022, CONNECT will be available Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., and Sunday 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. To file a claim, go to www.FloridaJobs.org and select “File a Claim”, visit a local CareerSource Career Center, or call 1-800-385-3920.
  • For more information visit here https://www.floridajobs.org/office-directory/division-of-workforce-services/reemployment-assistance-programs/disaster-unemployment-assistance

Florida Department of Education (DOE)

  • DOE is working with all superintendents in the impacted areas to coordinate damage assessments and identify resources that will be needed to support these counties
  • At the peak of the storm, 59 school districts were closed. 44 school districts have confirmed they will open either tomorrow or Monday
  • Early Learning Coalitions are still experiencing closures in the following counties: Collier, Glades, Hendry, Lee, Manatee, Orange, Osceola, Sarasota, and Seminole
  • School districts, state colleges and universities are beginning to announce reopening dates as they assess conditions following Hurricane Ian. For the most up-to-date reopening information, please visit fldoe.org/storminfo.

Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)

  • DEP has requested two mobile testing labs from EPA to help process drinking water and surface water samples for the protection of public health. The first lab is in place at the Lee County Mosquito Control Center and is operational. The second is in the process of being deployed to Charlotte County.
  • DEP is coordinating with FlaWARN and other response agencies on the dispatch of generators, fuel and pump trucks to assist drinking water and wastewater to help get them operational as soon as possible.
  • DEP is currently conducting post-storm beach surveys to determine impacts to our shorelines and erosion from Hurricane Ian. This information is used for the development of a Hurricane Recovery Plan, which is submitted to the Legislature for supplemental funding consideration.
  • DEP is actively working to provide any needed assistance to hazardous waste, wastewater and drinking water facilities. Outreach to these facilities to determine operation status is ongoing.DEP is on the ground and reaching out to local government officials, including utilities and public works directors, to provide assistance.
  • DEP is coordinating the dispatch of fuel and pump trucks to assist drinking water and wastewater facilities.
  • Hazardous Area Response Teams have been deployed to aid with assessment and resources for addressing impacts to hazardous waste facilities in impacted areas.
  • Following the issuance of the Governor’s Executive Order, DEP issued an Emergency Final Order waiving permitting requirements for the storage and processing of solid waste, including storm debris.
  • DEP has also issued an Emergency Final Order to expedite necessary repair, replacement and restoration of structures, equipment, surface water management systems, works and other systems damaged by the storm.
  • Nine Florida State Parks strike teams have been assembled to assist with assessment and recovery efforts at impacted parks. Five teams are on the ground today in impacted areas. Other teams will be deployed as conditions allow and needs are identified.
  • Visitors with existing camping and cabin reservations at impacted parks will be notified of their reservation status.

Telecommunications

  • The Division of Telecommunications is engaged with law enforcement with aerial and drone assessments.
  • The Division of Telecommunications continues to work with telecom partners to ensure that the state’s communications networks have redundancies and remain operational for first responders to respond to Floridians during the recovery.

Licensing

  • DOH’s Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Mental Health Counseling is increasing resources to expedite processing of licensure applications, ensuring greater availability of qualified mental health professionals.
  • DBPR Emergency Order 2022-03 waives the requirement for certified or registered, general, building, or residential contractors to subcontract roofing work for the repair or installation of any roof type in listed counties.
  • While the emergency order is in effect, registered contractors are not subject to geographic scope limitations or requirements when providing services in listed counties, subject to additional requirements outlined in the emergency order.
  • The emergency order clarifies that the installation of non-permanent, emergency tarps to relieve damage caused by Hurricane Ian fall within the exemptions listed in section 489.103(6).
  • Temporary Veterinarian License Application: The Florida Board of Veterinary Medicine has a 30-Day Temporary Veterinarian License available to out-of-state veterinarians who do not currently hold a Florida Veterinary License but wish to come to Florida to provide relief veterinary services.
  • DBPR EMERGENCY ORDER 2022-02 waives the $200 application fee for the issuance of a temporary license to out-of-state veterinarians, effective with the date corresponding with the effective date of Executive Order 22-218, as amended by Executive Order 22-219.
  • Florida licensed veterinarians interested in offering volunteer services should contact the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Florida Vet Corp for information at 1-800-HELP-FLA (1-800-435-7352).
  • Food Industry Bulletins: DBPR has published Emergency Recovery Guidelines and Boil Water Notice Guidelines on our website, and DBPR’s Division of Hotels and Restaurants is distributing the notices to licensed businesses in impacted areas.
  • DBPR Emergency Order 2022-01 extends the renewal deadline from September 30 or October 1, 2022, to October 31, 2022, for the following licenses:
    • Real Estate: Sales Associates, Broker Sales Associates, Brokers, Corporate Brokers, Partnerships, and Corporations and Branch Offices; Alcoholic Beverages: Retail Vendors, Distributors, Manufacturers, Importers, Brokers, Sales Agents, and Passenger Common Carriers; Drugs, Devices, and Cosmetics: Prescription Drug Wholesalers, Prescription Drug Wholesaler – Broker Only, Out-of-State Prescription Drug Wholesalers, and All Other DDC Licenses; Hotels and Restaurants: Public Lodging Establishments, Vacation Rentals, Timeshare Projects, and Public Food Service Establishments; and Community Association Managers.
  • Licenses renewed on or before October 31, 2022 shall be considered as timely renewals and will not be assessed any late fees.
  • DBPR Emergency Order 2022-01 also extends the deadline for the filing of monthly reports and returns by certain alcoholic beverage and tobacco license holders from October 10, 2022, to October 31, 2022.  Additionally, the order suspends and tolls through October 31, 2022, all final orders reflecting final agency action and all time requirements and deadlines for filing responses outlined in agency orders.
  • DBPR Board Meeting cancellations and other updates can be found at http://myfloridalicense.com/emergency.
  • DBPR’s Division of Drugs, Devices and Cosmetics is coordinating with wholesale distributors of prescription drugs and medical gases to provide information and support relating to exceptions for the emergency distribution of these critical supplies where needed.

Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR)

  • OIR required insurers to begin reporting preliminary catastrophe claims for Hurricane Ian. To date, insurers have reported a total of $1,445,283,629 in estimated insured losses and a total of 186,680 claims. This aggregate information is compiled from claims data filed by insurers, it has not been audited or independently verified. Additional claim data and information can be found on OIR’s Hurricane Ian information page here.
  • OIR issued Emergency Order 300997-22-EO in response to Hurricane Ian regarding the extension of grace periods, limitations on cancellations and nonrenewals, deemers and limitations on “use and file” filings. This Emergency Order is issued to protect the public health, safety and welfare of all Florida policyholders.
  • OIR instituted a data call for the purpose of collecting catastrophe claims data related to Hurricane Ian. OIR is requiring daily catastrophe claims reporting for Hurricane Ian starting Friday, September 30 to assist with determining the impact of Hurricane Ian on Florida’s insurance industry. More information regarding catastrophe claims data and reporting is available here.
  • In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis and the Florida Department of Financial Services will be setting up two insurance villages to assist consumers with insurance claims and other needs. The villages will be located in Charlotte and Lee counties. Both locations will become operational at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, October 3, 2022. 
  • Moving forward, the locations will be open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. seven days per week. Participants are encouraged to arrive between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. on Monday for set up.

Resource Management

  • Department of Management Services (DMS) continues to support search and rescue efforts with aerial and drone assessments.
  • DMS continues with contracting for equipment from heavy equipment, chain saws and alternate care site supplies to support recovery efforts.
  • DMS continues to locate and secure agreements for staging areas within the area of recovery.

Office Closures

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