In a recent government meeting, officials provided an update on the ongoing debris removal efforts following the recent storm, which began on October 16. The team has been actively working for three weeks, with a typical timeline for storm debris removal of around 90 days for events of this magnitude. Initial expectations suggested that complete cleanup might not be achieved until around Christmas or early New Year, but progress has exceeded these projections.
At the peak of operations, approximately 25 units were deployed to collect debris, including larger trucks specifically assigned to areas heavily impacted by flooding. The strategy focused on quickly removing construction debris from homes to prevent prolonged exposure for residents. Smaller trucks have also been utilized to address lighter debris piles throughout the city.
Despite the progress, challenges remain. Some contractors have been reported for improperly disposing of debris, which has hindered cleanup efforts. Officials noted that while most areas have seen substantial debris removal, certain locations, particularly around the center of the city, have experienced less impact and thus less immediate attention.
The city continues to adapt its approach, prioritizing areas most affected by flooding and ensuring that debris is cleared efficiently to support residents in their recovery efforts.