In a recent government meeting, officials provided a detailed account of the response to Hurricane Milton, which struck Fort Pierce shortly after the local utility, FPUA, had answered a call for mutual aid. The storm brought severe weather, including tornadoes and intense lightning, leading to widespread power outages affecting approximately 15,000 customers at the peak of the storm.

The utility crews, bolstered by mutual aid from other regions, worked tirelessly to restore power. Within 24 hours, 94% of affected customers had their electricity restored, thanks to the efforts of around 40 linemen. Notably, a dedicated night crew managed to restore power to 2,000 customers on their own, demonstrating the commitment and efficiency of the teams involved.

In addition to the electric crews, the wastewater team played a crucial role in maintaining operations during the storm, ensuring that the wastewater plant functioned smoothly. The customer service team also received commendations for their handling of inquiries during the crisis, providing reassurance to residents who were anxious about power restoration.

The water distribution crews faced challenges as well, particularly when a tornado damaged infrastructure near the Singlesey Jailhouse, leading to significant water flow issues. They responded promptly, coordinating their efforts with power restoration teams to address the situation effectively.

The meeting highlighted the collaborative efforts of various teams and mutual aid partners, including crews from Alabama and other states, who arrived quickly to assist in the restoration efforts. Officials expressed gratitude for the community's support and emphasized FPUA's commitment to serving Fort Pierce, reinforcing their role as a reliable hometown utility.