Governor Rick Scott issued an update this afternoon on the response and recovery efforts on Hurricane Matthew.
The federal government has approved portions of the governor's request for a major disaster declaration in Florida.
The approved declaration covers the removal of debris and emergency protective measures in eight counties including Duval, Flagler, Brevard, Nassau, Volusia, Indian River, St. Johns and St. Lucie. Funding has not yet been approved for individual assistance.
There are still 373,697 people without power.
There are still 340 people in 28 shelters in Florida.
Indian River and Volusia County still have mandatory evacuations in place.
To help with internet connectivity, Comcast is opening up WiFi hotspots in areas impacted by the storm in Florida, Georgia and South Carolina. The Wi-FI is available to non-Comcast subscribers
The state is monitoring the fuel supply and shortages. All ports are re-opened and the state is working with fuel suppliers to get retailers re-fueled as quickly as possible.
Over 3500 National Guard members have been activated and are providing support in St. Johns, Duval, Nassau, Putnam, Volusia, Flagler and Brevard Counties.
School will remained closed on Monday in Clay, Duval, Flagler, St. John’s. Volusia and DeSoto counties.
Toll suspensions in the impacted counties will remain in place through Sunday night at 11:59pm.
All interstates in Florida are open and all airports are open with the exception of Northeast Florida Regional Airport.
The Salvation Army has provided over 13000 meals with their 31 mobile canteens and the American Red Cross has provided nearly 25,000 meals to storm victims.
Youfit Health Clubs has opened their doors to the public today to help those who lost power from the storm. Visit their Facebook page for a list of all open locations.
AT&T and Verizon are waiving data overage charges for customers in affected areas.
