SARASOTA COUNTY – One year ago, on Sept. 26, 2024, Hurricane Helene brought significant storm surge, damaging winds, and historic flooding to Sarasota County, the results of which many residents in the community are still recovering.

While not a direct hit to Sarasota County, many areas of the county were greatly impacted by the sustained winds of 44 mph, with gusts of 64 mph recorded at the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ), and storm surge estimated at 4 to 7 feet along the coast. The storm made landfall in Perry, FL as a Category 4 hurricane. 

• More than 410 people and their pets sought shelter in Sarastoa County evacuation centers.
• Through five neighborhood points of distribution, flood relief and clean-up supplies were provided to the community.
• In unincorporated Sarasota County, residential and commercial property damage estimates exceeded $1.1 billion.
• More than 2,000 county employees worked before, during and after the storm to serve our community in all aspects of preparation and response.

Prior to Hurricane Helene, the community was impacted by Hurricane Debby on Aug. 5.

Sarasota County was outside the National Hurricane Center forecast cone for Helene, but still received impacts. It is important to be prepared and heed evacuation orders or other protective actions, as directed by public officials.

It only takes one storm. Hurricane season lasts until Nov. 30. Have an emergency preparedness kit. Have a plan. Have a way to receive emergency alerts by signing up at AlertSarasotaCounty.com.

“Being prepared and staying vigilant and well informed throughout the entirety of hurricane season is one of the best things you can do to protect your loved ones and property,” said Sarasota County Emergency Services director Rich Collins. “Don’t wait, take those actions now so you’re ready if another storm approaches our area.”

Sarasota County continues to apply lessons learned to prepare our community and our response to any future storms.

As our community continues to recover, the Resilient SRQ program is here to assist with recovery and mitigation efforts from 2024 storms through programs that are intended to best meet the unmet needs of Sarasota County, focusing on supporting low-to-moderate income households. The Long-Term Recovery Group in Sarasota County also guides the community through the aftermath of major storms by providing long-term assistance and resources to individuals and families affected by disasters.