A consortium of businesses and nonprofit wants to spark conversations on how to rebuild the barrier islands so structures and people can become more resilient for future storms.

Living in a disaster zone. That remains the reality for some people in Matlacha and on the south end of Pine Island, nearly six months after Hurricane Ian caused massive damage. The stress is taking a toll on some people, while many on the island focus on rebuilding.

Florida’s wetlands have historically served as natural sponges but are now filled with explosive growth and development. Throw in climate change concerns, and many wonder whether 2022’s flooding represents a new norm.

Projections are that three-quarters of a mile in Burnt Store Isles and over 6 1/2 miles in Punta Gorda Isles suffered some seawall damage and affected approximately 582 parcels.

Ian-related deaths have been confirmed in 19 counties.

Outreach workers are talking with the campers about options to perhaps move into transitional housing elsewhere. Some nearby business owners say it's time for them to move on.

The tourism marketing agency is spending $1 million on a campaign to show the state was not “completely destroyed” by the storm and is open for enjoyment.

Four months after Hurricane Ian, shards of debris have been washed onto the coast and lawns, and there is a spike in the number of cases of very dangerous flesh-eating bacteria.

Lee County is working to get signage back in place after Hurricane Ian damaged much of the coast in September.

Speaking in Lee County, DeSantis also announced more funds for hurricane recovery while citing red tape in the need to get more temporary shelters to residents in Southwest Florida.

Beaches that were eroded by waves and wind from Hurricanes Ian and Nicole last year will get help, with funding just announced.

City commissioners voted to halt new residential development for six months in certain flood zones.