‘Safety comes first’: Recovery effort begins after Hurricane Sally brings heavy rain, devastating storm surge to Gulf Coast

Millions of people from Alabama to the Carolinas are on alert for dangerous flooding left behind by Hurricane Sally.

At least one person was killed and another is missing.

The storm brought severe damage and historic flooding to Pensacola.

Read: Sally aftermath: Florida couple scramble into attic to avoid floodwaters

Hurricane Sally made landfall near the Florida/Alabama line as a Category 2 storm, bringing heavy rains and devastating storm surge along the Gulf Coast.

The storm was downgraded to a tropical depression Wednesday night, but continues to dump massive amounts of rain.

More than 40 people were rescued in Escambia County.

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Sally's aftermath The streets of Pensacola, Florida, were flooded after Hurricane Sally made landfall early Wednesday. (Gerald Herbert/Associated Press )

Gov. Ron DeSantis said that although the storm may be moving out, the danger still exists.

Read: Central Florida first responders head to Panhandle to help with Sally recovery efforts

“Protecting life is the number one priority. I know there will be property damage. We’re going to be here to help, but your life comes first. Safety comes first,” he said.

DeSantis said there have been nearly 600 search and rescue missions since the storm hit.

The state activated 500 members of the National Guard to help, and a crew of Central Florida first responders was also deployed to the area.

VIDEO: Central Florida first responders head to Panhandle to help with Sally recovery efforts

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