Hurricanes: Update on Recovery from Hurricane Milton in Polk County

Hurricanes Impacting Polk County

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Polk County officials will provide an update Sunday evening on recovery efforts in the wake of Hurricane Milton. The press conference is scheduled for 4:30 p.m., following significant devastation caused by this hurricane, which struck Florida's Gulf Coast as a powerful Category 3 storm.

Understanding the Damage

Hurricane Milton left extensive damage in Polk County, toppling trees and power lines, while heavy rains flooded streets and homes. At a Saturday news briefing, Polk County Emergency Management Director Paul Womble reported that the storm damaged 421 homes, with 38 of them completely destroyed.

Debris Collection Details

• Debris collection across the county begins Monday, Oct. 14.
• Residents are advised to move storm debris to the curb.
• Homeowners on private roads must complete an additional step for debris removal.

Important Instructions for Residents

Residents living on private roads or in gated communities need to get a “Right of Entry and Hold Harmless Agreement for Debris Removal” signed by their Homeowner’s Association or road owners, as per FEMA requirements. This enables county haulers access to private roads for debris collection.

To determine if you live on a private road, check street signs: white indicates private, while green signifies public. For assistance, residents can contact (863) 534-2580 or email realestate@polk-county.net. A list of private roads is available on the county’s website.

Future Updates

Further updates on recovery efforts will be provided during the upcoming 4:30 p.m. press conference.