Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm
Reporter – News Analyst
Fernandina Beach has survived Hurricane Matthew in much better shape than forecasters and residents had dared to hope. Utility trucks and emergency vehicles returned to the island this morning and are working to restore power and phone service. Private vehicles are not yet (11 a.m. Saturday) being allowed to return pending completion of a safety inspection of the Shave Bridge. Officials are hopeful that may happen later in the day, but returning residents should keep checking the Nassau County Emergency Operations Center before starting their return.
904) 548-0900 or (904) 654-5858
email: [email protected]
Facebook: NassauEM
twitter: @NassauEM
A brief drive around town revealed no current street flooding in the downtown area or along South Fletcher between Main Beach and Sadler Road. A large tree is down on Atlantic Avenue between 13th & 14th Streets, which brought down a major utility pole. Crews are on the scene. There is also a large tree blocking Ash Street in front of City Hall. Most of the large live oaks around town appear to have held up well.
Further updates when power is restored.
Over 50 vehicles and a couple hundred people waiting at the south end of the Nassau Sound bridge.
Having just closed on a “second home” in forest Village (off First Ave, FB), we were planning on spending the entire month of October down there.
Since we have no way to contace anyone – who have all evacuated days ago – we have no idea what damages, e.g., high water, rain, wind, etc. have occurred inside the village area. The total “village’ is covered with giant oak trees which may have helped some with wind damage, etc., but they are old and susceptible to toppling over IF there is a lot of high speed and constant pounding by the off-shore winds. Anyone who might happen to be in that area and could drive in, around and thru the development and could give a very brief summary of what was observed, it would be appreciated. We received an email on Wed. telling us that the area was evacuated Thursday morning so no one is around to call or talk with.
Thanks for any help in advance.
Paul C
Duluth, GA