(239) 390-8000 ~ 21500 Three Oaks Parkway, Estero, Florida 33928

Lee County update on response and recovery efforts in aftermath of Hurricane Ian

Fort Myers, FL, Sept. 29, 2022 – Lee County is actively engaged in search and rescue efforts, assessing infrastructure and structural damage and intensifying other response and recovery efforts in the wake of Hurricane Ian, which caused catastrophic damage throughout Lee County.

USAR – Urban Search and Rescue – crews from local agencies such as fire, law enforcement and EMS – began before daylight. Also, Federal Urban Search and Rescue teams from across the country are deploying. These are experts trained in all types of rescue scenarios. The State Emergency Operations Center is helping expedite this. And Florida Urban Search and Rescue Task Force units will help responders get to you. This plan is moving forward, led by first responder and fire representatives inside the Emergency Operations Center.

All 15 shelters the county opened prior to Hurricane Ian remain open. All will remain open. Emergency Management and its partners are working on increasing food and water supplies, as it’s anticipated residents with flooding or structural damage need a place to go.

Infrastructure is being assessed. Lee County DOT – along with law enforcement – is on scene at the Sanibel Causeway and in the Matlacha area, where extensive damage occurred. Bridge inspectors are across the county at all bridges to assess them.

Details and timing for island residents wishing to return to their homes are unknown at this time.

The county advises residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.

Lee DOT also is assessing the county’s more than 400 traffic signals. Motorists who approach intersections with non-working signals, drive as if it’s a four-way stop or obey any on-scene law enforcement officers.

At this time, 98% of the county is without power. This will be an extended power-outage event for Lee County. The county is working with FPL and LCEC.

Lee County Natural Resources crews and DOT are monitoring flooded areas and assessing infrastructure that assists with drainage of roadways and low-lying areas.

If you are out of the area and want to check on the safety and well-being of family and friends in Lee County, call the Lee County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency number at 239-477-1000.

Lee County Transit – LeeTran – fixed-route service remains suspended. LeeTran is assisting with emergency response and recovery efforts.

Many utilities are without water and under Boil Water Notices. If you cannot boil water due to lack of power, use bottled water or purify your water first.

The county and partners are ready to provide a coordinated response for the community. Check www.leegov.com/storm for Hurricane Ian updates. Follow @Lee County Government on Facebook, www.facebook.com/leecountyflbocc.

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