Residents of the coastal town of Steinhatchee, Florida, returned to devastating destruction caused by Hurricane Helene, which had maximum sustained winds of 140 mph. Many homes were swept away, businesses were flattened, and roads were flooded. At least 42 people were killed in the Southeast region, and millions were left without power. The storm weakened to a tropical depression as it moved north. In Steinhatchee, flooded roads and debris made travel difficult, with homes and docks destroyed or flooded.
Many residents, like Susan Grant, faced the heartbreaking loss of homes and businesses. Grant’s home survived, but her workplace, Crabbie Dad’s Bar & Grill, was destroyed. Nearby, Gary Keen’s property was covered in debris, but his home was relatively intact. However, the lack of accessible flood insurance made rebuilding a challenge for many residents.
The destruction also affected community landmarks like Roy’s restaurant, which collapsed under the storm’s force, leaving behind broken pillars and scattered debris. The devastation was particularly hard for residents who had seen their community rebuilt after a previous hurricane.
The community of Steinhatchee faced significant challenges following Hurricane Helene, with many homes and businesses destroyed and residents struggling to rebuild without adequate insurance. The impact of the storm was felt across the region, leaving residents shaken and grappling with the aftermath of yet another devastating hurricane.
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