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How extensive was the damage in Fort Myers Beach after Hurricane Helene?

It's the “day after” when Hurricane Helene dealt a few blows to Lee County, but luckily didn't score a direct hit. Many areas, particularly coastal communities, were dealing with storm surges, flooding and debris this morning (September 27). Here's what you should know about hot spot areas:

What to Know After Helene: Fort Myers Beach

According to the latest update from Lee County Sheriff Carmine Marceno at 6:55 a.m. the road is open on San Carlos Boulevard. He warned residents to be careful and not to park along the roadway while crews were moving. Officers were present at San Carlos Boulevard and Pine Ridge Road at 5:48 a.m. early Friday and road assessments are pending, Marceno said. As of 7:18 a.m., the road from Hickory Island to Fort Myers Beach is open.

Fort Myers Beach Emergency Management conducted an impact assessment of Hurricane Helene early Friday morning, the city said in a news release at 7:22 a.m. Estero Boulevard and North Estero Boulevard are littered with sand, rocks, mulch and debris. The Bay Oaks Recreation Center and New City Hall experienced water and mud intrusion. Bay Oaks remains closed today for cleanup; The Club Rec After School program is canceled. City staff will begin cleanup at Times Square and City Hall at 8 a.m. while contractors work on North Estero Boulevard. Residents are being urged to return to the island but should limit travel this morning. The city is advising those who do not require immediate access to wait until cleanup is complete.

What you should know after Helene: Matlacha

The Matlacha Pass Bridge is open. Officers will remain on scene as motorists drive through, Marceno said. Road construction crews are also assessing the area. Drivers should continue to exercise caution.

What you should know after Helene: Sanibel

As of 5:30 a.m., the Sanibel Causeway was closed to through traffic, Marceno said. Contractors are working to clear debris from the roadway and expect the roadway to be safely opened around noon today.

What to Know After Helene: South Lee County

In South Lee County, water has receded along the banks of Hickory and Imperial Shores. However, the roads are still unsafe due to downed power lines and debris, warns Marceno's 5:22 a.m. update. A road assessment is needed, he added. Flooding was also reported on West Terry and Harbor Drive. Halfway along Harbor Drive and most side streets there is about a foot of water and is impassable.

By Vanessa

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