Bonita Springs, United States - September 26, 2024

In a night where nature's fury took center stage, Bonita Springs firefighters were out in the field, braving the storm surge from Hurricane Helene to monitor and respond to emergencies within the Imperial Shores neighborhood. The area, known for its picturesque views, was turned into a flood zone, with water encroaching upon homes and streets.

Captured from the highest vantage point available, the video from Brush 23 offers a sobering perspective of the flood's extent. The footage, taken just before midnight, shows firefighters navigating through what are usually bustling streets, now eerily silent under water. This strategic use of the most elevated fire apparatus highlights the severity of the flooding, where traditional vehicles would be rendered useless.

The footage from Hickory Island, in particular, is a stark reminder of the storm's power. Here, the surge from Hurricane Helene transformed the landscape, pushing residents to secure anything containing lithium-ion batteries - smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles - in safe, dry locations to avoid the risk of fire or explosion when in contact with saltwater.

Fire department officials have issued a critical warning: "Please continue to stay indoors and off flooded streets." The message underscores the danger not only from the water itself but from potential hazards like submerged electrical wiring or contaminated floodwater.