HARLEM HEIGHTS, Fla. — Harlem Heights is in a state of cautious alert, still grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Ian as it prepares to face Hurricane Milton. Residents, aware of the devastating power of storms, are boarding up their homes and formulating evacuation plans that hope to ensure their safety.
Annie Brandell is no stranger to preparation. On Monday afternoon, her to-do list felt heavier than usual, reflecting the gravity of the situation.
“The windows we installed after Ian were marketed as hurricane-proof,” she pondered, “but how can we trust that?” Brandell’s thoughtful gaze seemed to reflect the uncertainty many feel in the wake of recent storms.
Watch Lee County Community Correspondent Ella Rhoades report below:
Harlem Heights still recovering from Ian, prepares for Milton
Just like two years ago, she and her family are poised to evacuate. The weariness in her voice resonated: “It’s devastating. Honestly, because nobody’s really prepared for this…it’s overwhelming.” With scars from Ian still lingering in their home, black mold reminds them of the havoc Mother Nature can wreak. Only recently did they manage to finish repairs, a testament to their resilience.
Despite the challenges, Brandell expressed a deep affection for her community. “I love this area, despite the storms, but we won’t move. Our neighbors are family. We cherish this neighborhood,” she remarked. The bond among residents serves as a silver lining amidst the looming storm clouds.
Across the street, Bianca Reyes and her five-year-old son Jamiyah, also preparing for the impending storm, exemplify a similar spirit. They spent their Sunday boarding up windows, a poignant act that reflects lessons learned from Ian. “Be more aware. Take more precautions,” Reyes advised, her lips curling into a small, determined smile.
Their decision to hunker down during the storm may evolve as conditions develop. “We have a backup plan, but for now, we’re sticking together,” Reyes noted, revealing the solidarity in community preparation.
During a Monday news conference, Lee County leaders urged residents to create evacuation plans without delay.
“You have time between now and tomorrow evening to make preparations, especially if you’re in flood-prone areas,” Commissioner Brian Hamman stated, his tone serious yet reassuring.
Sheriff Carmine Marceno added a stark warning, mentioning, “If winds exceed 145 miles per hour, emergency responders cannot guarantee assistance.” The reality of the storm’s threat loomed large as he reminded everyone to act swiftly. “Mother Nature is unpredictable; don’t wait,” he cautioned.
In an environment still healing from past damages, Lee County is actively reassessing how many zones may need evacuations as events unfold. Locals gently reminded each other of a fact that resonates even amid turmoil: Florida is prone to such storms, with an average of 56 hurricanes making landfall yearly.
For preparation and evacuation information, residents are encouraged to visit Lee County’s official resources. The winds of Hurricane Milton may be on the horizon, but the strong sense of community and commitment to safety shines brighter than any storm cloud.
