Ida Clears Panhandle, Residents React
11/10/09 - 11:31 AM
By: Jessi Chapin

Panama City Beach, Fla:

The clouds are melting away, but Tropical Storm Ida had impacts across the Panhandle, including school and road closures, power outages, and debris.  Some early risers braved the beach to see its last remnants.

“Just wanted to see what the storm had brought about as far as the water goes,” said beach resident Kim Dalley.

“I’m going to take some pictures of the water, it looks pretty awesome,” said Dean Wilsey with his camera in hand.

The storm peaked around 5 a.m, shutting down a few roads and Panama City Beach’s city pier.

“Wanted to come out here and take a look at the water this morning,” said avid fisherman Patrick Broome, “see how rough it was see if we’re able to go fishing this morning on the pier.”

The storm brought a surge of 2 to 4 feet and wind gusts up to 48 miles per hour.

“I was up all night watching the wind blowing and the rain coming down and I think it’s exciting,” said Dalley.

“Last night I heard the surf all night and I heard a little bit of rain around 3 or 4 in the morning,” said Wilsey.

Despite the winds, damage from the storm is minimal.  It has many breathing sighs of relief.

“I’ve seen a lot of rough storms and this doesn’t compare to those luckily,” said Dalley.

“I’m glad it was no worse than what it was,” said Wilsey.

Power was restored to outage areas Tuesday morning.  Other planned Veteran’s Day activities will continue Wednesday as previously scheduled.