Anna Maria Island endured three major storms in the 2024 hurricane season-Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton-within less than three months. Peak waves exceeded 18 feet and storm surge reached 6.6 ft NAVD88, surpassing 100-year return period thresholds. Debby initiated widespread erosion, leaving the island vulnerable to Helene’s over-wash and infrastructure exposure. Milton then compounded losses, intensifying the cumulative impacts. Yet the island’s response demonstrates the value of proactive planning. Manatee County’s Storm Preparedness and Response Plan enabled rapid mobilization, including quick assessments, coordinated data collection, and targeted recovery. Sand sifting operations reclaimed over-wash deposits and restored sand to the active beach system. The County’s long-standing monitoring program, with pre-storm baselines, provided critical context for guiding recovery and supporting state and federal funding. This presentation highlights how planning, real-time coordination, and sustained monitoring enhanced resiliency. Lessons from Anna Maria Island stress readiness, proactive management, and adaptable recovery strategies for barrier island communities.

Organized by Lee Mayfield