Parts of Southwest Florida are in recovery mode Friday after Hurricane Helene brought flooding to many areas.
Video above: Live coverage from NBC2 News
Fort Myers Beach, downtown Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Matlacha, Pine Island, Sanibel, Punta Gorda and parts of Collier County all experienced flooding events Thursday.
Residents in Downtown Fort Myers were moved from their first-floor homes as the storm surge from Helene flooded the area near Evans Street and Providence Street, just down the road from the Edison Bridge.
Earlier in the day, there were reports of a possible tornado in North Fort Myers, which has prompted a National Weather Service investigation. It was reported near the Lee County Posse Arena on Palm Creek Road off Bayshore Road as bands from Helene moved in.
> Hurricane Helene flood impacts
The Iona-McGregor Fire District says they rescued nine residents at Indian Creek Mobile Home Park. According to the battalion chief, an initial call started as a reported structure fire. A fire wasn’t found, but when firefighters arrived they found several people trapped.
LIVE RADAR | TRAFFIC CONDITIONS
Helene also caused serious flooding in Charlotte County, with some residents reporting flooded homes off of U.S. 41, near Aqui Esta Drive. NBC2 reporters spotted people riding in boats through the floodwaters, and driving John Deere excavators to get to safety.
The late storm surge also prompted some school districts in Southwest Florida to reverse plans and close schools on Friday. You can see a full list of the closures here.
> Photos: Hurricane Helene's impact on Southwest Florida
Multiple flights at Southwest Florida International Airport were canceled on Friday morning. Normal operations are resuming on Friday, but some more delays and cancelations are possible. Travelers are encouraged to check with their airline for specific information.
Helene has weakened to a depression and will continue to weaken as it falls apart.