TBO reports Tropical Storm Debby swept through Suncoast Gateway Mobile Village in Port Richey, Florida, damaging the underside, insulation, under support, and air conditioning units of many of the homes. President Obama declared a major disaster area in five Fla. counties, making them eligible for federal funding including low-cost loans to cover uninsured damage, grants for temporary housing and home repairs, and programs to help businesses recover. The 14 inches of rain led to some residents of the community being rescued by boat. MHProNews.com has learned Mike Rosenhagen of Carefree Property Management, operator of Suncoast Gateway, said the county’s neglect of the community’s culvert draining system resulted in water stagnating in parts of Suncoast.

(Photo credit: TBO/Andy Jones—Larry Oberg spraying away debris in aftermath of Debby)