‘Out on the street:’ Palm Bay families salvage what they can after floods
Families in Palm Bay are still trying to recover after floodwaters rushed into homes and cars, leaving many residents with waterlogged belongings, growing piles of debris and uncertainty about where to go next.
In one neighborhood, storm-damaged furniture, family photos and personal belongings now line the curb as residents gut their homes and search for anything that can be saved.
Julie Angulo said her mother, Judith Vega, lost nearly everything when water poured into the home where she has lived for more than 30 years.
“She worked hard to provide us a home,” Angulo said. “It feels like it’s gone. I’m grateful she’s here, but it’s hard to see anything else right now for her.”
Vega said she got out just in time as the water began rushing inside.
“The water got so strong, so heavy,” Vega said. “Anything that was on the floor was floating around inside the house.”
Three days later, the damage is still visible. Floors remain wet, fans are running to dry out the home, and water is still pooling in the back of Vega’s car.
Angulo said the loss is difficult to process as her mother’s belongings sit outside with other debris.
“There’s just trinkets, there’s pictures. There’s just so much stuff,” Angulo said. “Nothing is salvageable.”
Despite the devastation, neighbors have been helping each other clean up and find support. A veterinarian has helped board family pets, and city garbage crews have begun moving through affected areas.
Still, piles of flood-damaged debris continue to grow as families work to figure out what can be saved and what comes next.
Assistance portal opening
Brevard County is opening a request portal for residents who need help with flood clean-up efforts.
The program connects homeowners with volunteer organizations that can help remove mud, ruined furniture, wet flooring and damp drywall.
All services are free of charge, but assistance is not guaranteed.
Residents are asked to submit only one request per household and to provide the following information:
- Name and contact information
- Household details
- Photos of damaged areas
Residents can apply by completing this online form:
Palm Bay hosting flood recovery info sessions
The City of Palm Bay is hosting two flood recovery information sessions Friday for residents impacted by the flooding.
The first session runs from 9 to 11 a.m. at Palm Bay City Hall, and a second session is scheduled from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Tony Rosa Community Center. Officials say further discussions about long-term recovery efforts are expected in the coming weeks.