Following Hurricane Milton, the Captiva Island Fire Control District has provided an essential update on the ongoing recovery and safety efforts. The district is actively working to mitigate hazards and assess damage across the island. For emergencies, please call 911 as the district’s phones are down due to the storm.
Key Updates:
- Blind Pass Bridge: The bridge is now open for vehicle passage, thanks to repairs by the Lee County Department of Transportation (DOT). However, residents will need to show proper identification to access Captiva. Sanibel-Captiva Road near the bridge is damaged and currently restricted to one lane.
- Captiva Drive: The road is open to residential traffic, but sections near Captiva Shores and Wiles Drive have suffered major damage. The DOT is conducting ongoing repairs, and these areas are limited to one lane. Residents should exercise caution, especially near Jensen’s on the Gulf.
- South Seas Roadways: At present, district fire apparatus cannot access South Seas roads, except for the beach rescue vehicle. Residents checking on their property should be aware that emergency service access may be limited.
- Power and Water: Captiva remains without power, and it will not be restored until crews can safely access the island and assess damage. The Island Water Association has restored limited water service, allowing fire personnel to use it for emergencies.
- Storm Surge and Erosion: The storm surge from Hurricane Milton was similar to what was experienced during Hurricane Ian. The fire station took on two feet of water, and significant beach erosion has occurred, resulting in the loss of a portion of The Mucky Duck.
- Hazard Mitigation: Fire crews are continuing search and rescue efforts and working to clear roadways. Sand removal along Captiva Drive is expected to be completed today. However, several hazards, including large fuel leaks, are still being addressed.
- Emergency Access: Lee County Emergency Medical Services cannot currently access the island with ambulances, and transport to hospitals will be limited until major road debris is cleared.
- Electric Vehicles: Submerged lithium-ion electric vehicles (EVs) on the island pose a significant fire risk. Residents are urged to complete an Electric Vehicle Reporting Form on the district’s website so fire personnel can check EVs for damage. The district recommends arranging for submerged EVs to be inspected or serviced promptly.
Important Reminders:
- Boat Access: Residents accessing Captiva by boat must use approved docks that are deemed safe.
- Patience Requested: Residents are asked to be patient as fire crews work to address the numerous hazards on the island.
For more details on the electric vehicle reporting process and other updates, visit the Captiva Island Fire Control District website.
Stay safe and continue to follow guidance from local authorities as recovery efforts progress.
