Widespread flooding on Fort Myers Beach

Hurricane Idalia did not make a hit on Fort Myers Beach but the passing of its outer bands off the coast left widespread flooding downtown and on numerous side streets.

Storm surge from the Gulf of Mexico was felt particularly in the heart of downtown and on Main Street.

The town felt tropical storm force winds as the hurricane’s center passed by 100 miles away.

There could still be storm surge today after high tide approaches around noon, the National Weather Service reported. Storm surge has been reported at up to two to four feet.

“We are still assessing the situation across the island. We still have one more high tide to get through before we will have a total picture,” Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers said.

Allers, who had warned residents living in trailers not to stay in them as Idalia approached, said “the trailers held up well.”

The Town of Fort Myers Beach issued this statement this morning on the flooding:

“Crescent and First Streets in the Downtown District by Bayside Park are under water. Please avoid that area all day as high tide is expected at noon and could add more water in that location. Other side streets that have flooding are: Second, Third, Bahia Via, Anchorage, Andre Mar, Dakota, Oak Ridge, Fairweather, Lazy Way, and Estrellita.

“Please stay out of Times Square until we can get it cleared. It is covered with sand and rocks.

“Just before Matanzas Pass Bridge on San Carlos Boulevard, there is about a foot of water over the road which requires caution to safely pass through.

“Please use caution when driving. Estero Boulevard is passable with some small debris, sand patches and blowing sand, as well as puddles. Town staff have contacted the Lee County Emergency Operations Center for assistance to get Estero Boulevard fully cleaned.”

Town hall will be open today.

Lee County residents are urged to use caution today even as Hurricane Idalia has move well away from the area. ...

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