MANASOTA KEY, Fla. — Residents in Charlotte County are still reeling after Hurricane Milton devastated the area last week.
In coastal communities like Manasota Key and Grove City, entire homes were destroyed in the storm, leaving behind crumbling foundations. High winds swept sand across town, toppled trees and tore off roofs, leaving streets strewn with debris.
While cleanup efforts are underway, it's uncertain how long it will take to rebuild. Charlotte County Emergency Management Director Patrick Fuller said Sunday that officials are doing their best to support all residents.
"We do recognize the immense devastation suffered by many parts of our county and those individuals are working diligently to put their lives back together," Fuller said. "We are certainly in awe of the efforts of our residents and we work with you together to bring our community back to the new normal. The resilience of our community is second to none."
Public works crews continue to survey damage and clear roads of debris. Residents are urged to exercise caution on the roads due to blocked streets and inoperable traffic signals.
Charlotte County has opened three sites to give residents food, water and other necessary supplies. So far, Fuller says the county has distributed more than 10,000 cases of ready-to-eat meals, 12,000 cases of water and 10,000 tarps to Charlotte County residents.
In addition, the county is operating a Public Fuel Depot at Charlotte Sports Park from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
A curfew is in effect for the barrier islands, including Manasota Key, Little Gasparilla Island, Don Pedro, Knight Island, Thornton Key, Sandpiper Key and Palm Island. The curfew, which is in place from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily, will remain in effect until further notice.
For more information on Charlotte County's response to Hurricane Milton, click here.
