CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — Clean-up continues after Hurricane Helene left its mark on the Tampa Bay area.

What You Need To Know

  • Businesses in Downtown Crystal River are cleaning up days after Hurricane Helene swept thru the Gulf

  • Helene caused ripples of storm surge, flooding many homes and businesses along Florida's coast
  • Despite sandbagging outside her store, Salty Girls Beach Shop, owner Deanna Boyer was cleaning up her store after feet of flooded waters swept thru her store

For areas up to the north, like Citrus County, many were impacted by flooding caused by storm surge.

“I walked out the door and just started bawling. What else can you do?” Deanna Boyer said.

Since 1964, Deanna Boyer has called Crystal River home. She has worked at Salty Girls Beach Shop for the last five years.

“We got about two feet more than what I’ve ever seen in my lifetime,” said Boyer.

The swimwear and beach supply store that’s billed as a “one stop shop for all your salty needs” took a hit during Hurricane Helene. As the sound of generators sound outside its walls. And possessions that once stood inside now sit out at the curb.

“We have a 4,000 square foot building here and we got about an inch and a half of mud inside,” said Boyer. “So not only did we have to remove all of our appliances and displays and inventory, now we have to spend a few days pressure washing several times, then bleaching and the sanitizing. It’s a process. It definitely takes some time and manpower.”

Sandbags can also be seen sitting outside doors of the shop. Placed ahead of Thursday’s storm, the bags were not strong enough to withhold Helene’s surge.

“Flood barrier, sandbags- we were ready to go, or so we thought,” says Boyer. “But a vehicle turned the corner and blew our front doors out. You can’t plan on things like that, you just do the best you can. So it’s failed but every storm we learn something new.”

But amidst all the wreckage and clean-up, Boyer is remaining positive as her friends help her salvage what is left. Picking up the pieces as she looks to open the store once again. The “beach vibe” here still strong.

“We’re not going anywhere. This is paradise,” she said. “And if this is the price we have to pay to live here, then we’re going to pay it.”

Boyer said her focus is getting the building as clean as possible. Once she can do that and get it empty, they will repair the internal damage like the dry wall and electric.