SARASOTA, Fla. (SNN) – Local business owners say they’re grateful Idalia didn’t do as much damage as Hurricane Ian.
“Last year was a big financial setback for us. I lost all my dairy, all my ice cream, all my ingredients that we had to make there, and so that was really challenging. This year was a lot faster and a lot easier for me. And then also, the doom and gloom around wasn’t nearly as much,” said Jake Best, the owner of Jake’s Ice Cream.
“With Ian, I feel like there was just more wind and a lot more rainfall,” said Peter Limber, the owner of Charlutz.
“There was no power, no one had power for months,” said Mckinzie Lonergan, a chef at the restaurant.
Both the south and north bridges leading to the island are now open, but there are still many road closures in the area.
“We know it’s frustrating if you want to go home, but the storm is relentless, these outer bands bringing more rainfall and we just ask that you be patient,” said Sarasota Police Department Public Information Officer Cynthia McLaughlin.
The island is experiencing on-and-off torrential rain and many businesses remain closed.
“When these cars drive through the flooding, even if the car makes it through, that water could create a wake going to these businesses. So, we want to be respectful of our friends and our neighbors,” said McLaughlin.