Looking back - 1 year since Hurricane Helene

Sept. 26, 2025

Click here for a video recap of Hurricane Helene's impacts and the City's recovery efforts.

One year ago, today, Sarasota faced significant impacts from Hurricane Helene, despite passing by more than 100 miles away. Coastal areas of Sarasota sustained over 4 feet of storm surge, damaging hundreds of homes and businesses.

Once the storm passed, City crews from Public Works, the Sarasota Police Department, Utilities, and Parks and Recreation jumped into action to clear debris covered roadways, begin extensive damage assessments, and address safety concerns. As initial response efforts began, the unthinkable crystalized: Another storm, larger and more furious, tracking directly toward Sarasota. While responding to the devastation caused by Helene, we simultaneously prepared for what would become Hurricane Milton, the first-ever direct hit on Sarasota.

The community’s can-do attitude and neighborly response to these devastating back-to-back storms was heartening, but work remains to be done. Recovery continues for some homeowners, business owners and many of our coastal parks that were especially hard hit. City staff remain focused on full restoration and are working daily toward that goal, with over a dozen significant projects in the permitting phase with state and federal agencies. Be sure to visit Sarasotafl.gov/RestoringSarasota for updates.

Hurricane season runs through November. You're encouraged to be prepared and remain vigilant. Visit www.Sarasotafl.gov/HurricanePrep for hurricane preparedness information.

Helene - flooded St. Armands and Lido - Sept 27, 2024.JPG