Certified divers from Port Tampa Bay will help with underwater damage assessment, debris removal and FEMA paperwork.

TAMPA – A certified dive crew from Port Tampa Bay will head to the Port of Panama City this morning (Oct. 29) to help with recovery in the aftermath of Hurricane Michael.

Hurricane Michael caused immense devastation to the Port of Panama City including massive building damage. Because of persistent communications issues (cell phone and internet outages), recovery and repair efforts have been hampered there. After repeated efforts, Port Tampa Bay President/CEO Paul Anderson, wasn’t able to connect with Port of Panama City Executive Director Wayne Stubbs until last week to offer resources.

At this time, the Port of Panama City is asking for help with underwater damage assessment, debris removal and FEMA paperwork.

The three Port Tampa Bay team members headed to Panama City are all certified divers, and have backgrounds in engineering, surveying, damage assessment, and FEMA contracts. They will be able to help assess damage for insurance/FEMA estimates, debris removal, and FEMA paperwork.

The Port Tampa Bay crew is going up in two trucks filled with supplies along with a boat for diving and underwater assessments. The team plans to camp outside near the Panama City port as there is a shortage of hotel rooms available.

There is no timetable for the team’s return.

Photo showing some of the equipment that the Port Tampa Bay dive team will take to the Panhandle. Photo is screen capture of Port Tampa Bay video. Courtesy of Port Tampa Bay.

Port Tampa Bay | Hurricane Michael | Hurricane Relief | Tampabay News

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