Chicago – October 13, 2024
President Joe Biden promised ongoing support for Florida’s recovery efforts after surveying the damage caused by Hurricane Milton, a Category 3 storm, and the previously striking Hurricane Helene.
Both storms have severely impacted the region, leaving behind flooded streets, power outages, fuel shortages, and slowing clean-up operations.
Biden visited St. Pete Beach, a community deeply affected by the disasters, where he observed the extensive debris and damage, including homes knocked off their foundations.
During his visit, Biden acknowledged the immense challenges of debris removal and reassured residents that more aid would be coming. He was joined by Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, who noted that about 75% of the state’s power should be restored by Tuesday.
However, according to Governor DeSantis, approximately 818,000 customers are still without electricity. Fuel shortages remain a significant issue, with many gas stations around Tampa out of fuel.
The state plans to open additional fuel distribution sites to alleviate some of these issues.
