- April 18, 2024
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While winds and rain have decreased in Volusia County due to Tropical Storm Ian, officials are anticipating another round of rainfall Thursday evening extending through Friday early morning hours.
"So we're not out of the woods," said Kevin Captain, Volusia County Community Information director, during a 3 p.m. news conference Thursday. "We're still on the tail end of this storm, and high water still looms over many roads, making driving conditions impossible or extremely dangerous."
County officials continue to urge residents to stay off the roads, and after speaking with city managers across the county, reported widespread flooding as well as downed trees and situational rescues. More residents are also now in shelters — 361 — and Captain said the county is aware some residents will be displaced due to storm damage on their homes. Longterm temporary housing arrangements are being established with community partners.
"The damage that this storm caused can only be defined as devastating, which will take our community months, if not weeks, to recover," Captain said. "Despite this adversity, rest assure: We will recover. We can rebuild, and we will prevail."
Residents should still expect to see tropical storm force winds of about 40-45 mph as Ian continues to move offshore, said Jim Judge, interim Volusia County Emergency Management director. An addition 2-3 inches of rain are also expected.
Over 247,000 people in Volusia are without power.
Linda Webster-Dubea, regional manager of Florida Power and Light, said damage assessment teams are already fanning out across FPL territory to help restore power. Crews are also working to clear roads.
"Keep in mind, due to the strength of the storm, many homes and businesses have suffered damage that make them unable to safely accept power," Webster-Dubea said.
Volusia County Public Works Director Ben Bartlett said crews are assessing the roads and stormwater systems for damage.
"By staying off the roads, you can help create a safer working environment for all emergency crews working to restore services," Bartlett said.
The city of Ormond Beach posted on its Facebook page that local first responders have seen residents not abiding by the curfew. Residents should be sheltering in place, as the countywide curfew doesn't expire until 7 a.m. Friday.
