Hurricane Helene Causes Severe Flooding in Southwest Florida

dailynewsmissouriimage

Hurricane Helene, a powerful Category 4 storm, has brought heavy rainfall and flooding to Southwest Florida. Streets are underwater, and residents are urged to stay indoors as water levels continue rising. The Weather Authority is providing comprehensive coverage of Hurricane Helene’s impact on the state.

The storm initially struck northern Florida but has indirectly caused severe weather conditions in the southwest region. The Fort Myers Police Department reported several rescues of stranded residents and animals. A family on First Street and a man and his dog were saved from rising waters.

The Point of Pines community in Englewood is particularly affected, with emergency services using rescue boats to assist neighbors. North Fort Myers experienced strong winds that blew the roof off a home on Palm Creek Road. Southwest Florida International Airport has resumed most of its normal operations following the hurricane’s impact.

However, the Lee County Electric Cooperative continues to report widespread power outages. Several major roads have been closed, with some partially reopened. Cleveland Avenue (US 41) had closures due to a downed powerline, but some sections have reopened.

McGregor Boulevard is closed between Port Comfort Road and the Sanibel Toll Plaza. The Cape Coral Parkway has reopened between the Cape Coral Bridge and Palm Tree Boulevard. The Caloosahatchee Bridge has reopened, but the Edison Bridge remains closed.

Hurricane Helene’s impact and recovery

The Matlacha Bridge recently reopened with deputies managing traffic flow. In South Lee County, water levels have receded on Hickory and Imperial Shores, but roads remain unsafe due to debris and downed power lines.

West Terry and Harbor Drive side streets have approximately 1 ft of standing water, making them impassable. Assessments are ongoing for San Carlos Blvd toward Fort Myers Beach, but the area is deemed unsafe for travel. The Sanibel Causeway is closed for debris removal but is expected to reopen at noon.

The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District is equipped with high-water vehicles to respond to emergencies. Charlotte County officials have urged residents to stay off roads due to significant flooding and storm surge. The Interstate 75 northbound exit ramp to Harbor View is closed due to flooding.

All roads in downtown Punta Gorda are currently closed. The U.S. 41 bridge over the Peace River is closed due to flooding. Beach Road in Englewood is closed from State Road 776 to the county line.

Gilcrest Park and nearby areas are experiencing flooding with storm drains overflowing. Police and emergency services are actively responding to flooding reports and ensuring no one is on hazardous streets. Residents are highly encouraged to remain indoors and avoid flooded roads to ensure their safety during this severe weather event.

Updates will be provided as conditions change.


We rely on trusted sources to provide accurate and reliable information to our readers. Our editorial process uses a combination of primary sources, expert interviews, and reputable secondary sources to ensure the quality and integrity of our content. We strive to maintain high standards of journalism and provide transparent attribution to our sources. You can learn more about our editorial process and standards in our editorial guidelines.

  • Live5News.”CLOSINGS & CANCELLATIONS: Schools, facilities and businesses preparing for Helene’s impact”.
  • Local12.”SchoolWatch for Friday, Sept. 27 – Helene’s impact”.
  • WINKNews.”SWFL roads closed due to impacts from Tropical Storm Helene”.

More recent news