Cleanup begins across Central Florida after Hurricane Matthew batters Florida coastline

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Hurricane Matthew left hundreds of thousands of people without power as the Category 1 storm skirted the state's east coast.

Damage was reported throughout Central Florida and along the east coast as Matthew slowly moved north Friday.

BREVARD COUNTY:

Residents of Cocoa Beach were allowed to return to their homes, though a power outage on Friday caused by Hurricane Matthew had stalled the city’s sewage system, a press release said. It prompted a request to citizens to refrain from using toilets, showering, washing laundry or doing dishes.

The city was able to address the critical water treatment outage, and the sewage system is running normally. Call 2-1-1 with any questions.

Meanwhile, residents and business owners worked to clean up the mess Matthew left behind.

At a Cocoa Beach Winn-Dixie, winds ripped off part of the roof. The whole shopping center lost power.

At the Cocoa Beach Pier, businesses lost power Friday, and some were damaged. The winds knocked off some metal covering the air-conditioning units and knocked down some signs and a fan.

Melbourne International Airport resumed operations Saturday morning.

VOLUSIA COUNTY:

Clean up began Saturday after widespread damage was reported across Volusia County in the wake of Hurricane Matthew. The storm pummeled the county late Thursday night into Friday morning.%

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The main causeway in New Smyrna Beach was reopened Saturday.

Power lines were knocked down throughout the area. %

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FPL said crews are working to restore power to about 156,000 customers.

In New Smyrna Beach, the airport sustained damage.

Important information from the county for residents:

Volusia County will continue to have inclement weather overnight as Hurricane Matthew continues north. The area may continue to have passing squalls from the storm. We know there are power outages, downed trees and reports of damage throughout the county. Many roads are blocked by downed trees and power lines. Traffic signals may not be working in many areas and unnecessary travel may hamper the clearing of roads and the reestablishment of power.

Airports

● Daytona Beach International Airport:  Daytona Beach International Airport sustained minor damage from Hurricane Matthew. There are portions of the airfield that contain standing water. The terminal and airfield lighting are operating on back-up generator power. The terminal is currently without air conditioning. The air traffic control tower and navigational equipment are operating on a backup generator with limited capabilities. An airfield assessment is ongoing to determine if it is safe to open the taxiway and runway surfaces.  “Our top priority is the safety of the traveling public,” said Airport Director Rick Karl. “At this point, there are too many variables that make it difficult to determine when the airport can safely open but we are targeting the afternoon of Saturday, Oct. 8.” Passengers should check with their airlines regarding flight schedules.

● New Smyrna Beach Municipal Airport: The airport has sustained damages that affect operations; multiple building damage, two buildings and a downed fence. Until power is restored the airport will operate only during daylight hours beginning at 8 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 8. NOTAM  notification will be issued prior to resumption of flights. Additionally, until full restoration, pilots should use VFR regulations. %

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Beaches:

Volusia County's beaches are under a double red flag, which means water activities are prohibited. People should not be going into the water. The surf is still very dangerous with the rough surf conditions
and a lot of debris in the water. There can be debris as large as trees in the water right now.

Damage assessment: Throughout Volusia County, crews are trying to assess damage as they are able. To report damage to public facilities or buildings, please call the Citizens Information Center at 866-345-0345. The Florida Highway Patrol Multiple said trees are down in the roadway, along I-95 between mm 234 and 260 and motorists should seek an alternate route. The Florida Highway Patrol and other agencies are removing trees throughout the area. If motorists are on the roadways they should use caution.

Cox Media Group