Here's a look at boats that were wrecked or sunk following Hurricane Ian on Fort Myers Beach, Florida.

Hurricane Ian had a devastating impact on Fort Myers Beach, Florida, when it hit as a Category 4 storm on September 28, 2022. The hurricane brought catastrophic damage to the area, characterized by extensive destruction of properties and infrastructure. The recovery process in the aftermath has been substantial but challenging, with ongoing efforts to rebuild and restore the community.

Here are some key points about the impact and recovery efforts:

Direct Hit and Extensive Damage: Fort Myers Beach took a direct hit from Hurricane Ian, with winds just shy of Category 5 strength. This caused widespread damage throughout the town, including significant structural damage to buildings and homes.
Debris Removal and Restoration: Poststorm, the town faced massive debris removal tasks. Cleanup efforts were initially supported by Lee County and the Florida Department of Emergency Management, focusing especially on clearing the canals and waterways. These efforts have transitioned to property owners being responsible for debris removal on their properties.
Infrastructure and Utility Repairs: Recovery has also involved extensive infrastructure repairs, including the need for new electrical installations and building repairs. Residents and contractors have been navigating complex permitting processes to ensure that rebuilding efforts comply with updated building standards and codes.
Community Resilience and Support: The community has shown resilience and solidarity, with various local organizations and government entities providing ongoing support. Efforts have included financial aid, food service support, and other essential services to help displaced or affected residents.
Longterm Recovery: Even 18 months after the hurricane, Fort Myers Beach is still in the process of recovery and rebuilding, with many areas showing progress but still bearing the marks of the disaster. The community continues to work towards a full recovery, with ongoing construction and revitalization efforts.
The path to recovery for Fort Myers Beach has been a testament to the community's strength and determination to rebuild better and stronger after such a significant natural disaster.