DESTIN, FL – More than 439,000 utility accounts remained without power Saturday afternoon as Florida mobilized thousands of emergency personnel and military members following Hurricane Isaias’ landfall along the Florida Panhandle.
According to Governor Ron DeSantis, Hurricane Isaias made landfall near Destin at approximately 9:30 p.m. Friday as a Category 2 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 105 mph.
During a Saturday press conference in Destin, the governor provided updates on recovery operations across the 27 Florida counties under a state of emergency.
As of 1 p.m., 439,162 utility accounts remained without electricity, with restoration crews working around the clock.
According to the governor’s office, approximately 5,000 Florida National Guard soldiers and airmen have been activated, supported by more than 1,300 tactical vehicles, 50 roadway clearance vehicles, 10 boats and eight helicopters.
Additionally, nearly 400 Florida State Guard personnel have deployed to assist with search and rescue operations, debris removal and damage assessments.
The Florida Highway Patrol reported completing 67 debris removal missions, while 45 additional troopers have been deployed as part of its Quick Response Force.
According to the Florida Department of Transportation, more than 1,100 employees and 260 pieces of heavy equipment have been activated. Officials confirmed all interstate highways and state-owned bridges have reopened.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission deployed 28 additional officers to assist 75 local officers with recovery operations.
Healthcare facilities also reported significant disruptions, with seven evacuations involving 382 residents and patients. Additionally, 69 healthcare providers reported power outages, while 27 reported damage.
State officials are coordinating 600 pallets of food and emergency meal assistance for affected communities.
Meanwhile, 54 Starlink communication kits have been deployed to support emergency communications.
Recovery operations remain ongoing throughout the Florida Panhandle as state and local agencies work to restore essential services.
SOURCE: FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION
