X HIGHLIGHT: Hurricane Sally

Highlight Hurricane Sally

Hurricane Sally made landfall as a Category 2 hurricane on September 16, 2020 near Gulf Shores, Alabama leading to significant damage and flooding as it moved through the Florida Panhandle. The storm substantially impacted Escambia County, causing 90% of residents to lose power. During this public health emergency, FDOHEscambia responded to meet the needs of the community. Activation of the County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) prompted FDOHEscambia’s responsibility as the lead coordinating agency for Emergency Support Function (ESF) 8. FDOH-Escambia staff provided leadership in coordinating and integrating overall County efforts to provide health and medical assistance to affected areas and populations. In anticipation of Hurricane Sally’s potential impacts, Escambia opened shelters on September 14. Disaster Team 7 was activated to staff the special needs shelter, which was co-located with the general population shelter at the Pensacola Bay Center. Staff completed 35 written requests from LTCs/ALFs, hospitals, physician’s offices and clinics, and funeral homes. Additionally, an Environmental Health Strike Team was utilized and conducted over 320 environmental assessments within the community. FDOH-Escambia provided appropriate, coordinated, and timely information to the public. Marie Mott, FDOH-Escambia Administrator and Health Officer participated in several EOC press conferences. FDOH-Escambia’s Public Information Office ensured that the public was well informed on relevant health advisories via various communications channels including press releases and social media platforms.

Community Outreach Resource Fair for Renters Impacted by Hurricane Sally

In response to the devastating impact of Hurricane Sally to Escambia County, team members from divisions across FDOH-Escambia volunteered to participate in a 3-day community outreach event. The event was held from September 25 through September 27, 2020 and was tailored for renters impacted by Hurricane Sally. DOH-Escambia team members from CHEN, EH and WIC were able to provide resources on flooding, drain and cover, healthy eating, available services, etc. to event attendees.

PICTURED: FDOH-Escambia Staff responding to Hurricane Sally.