Sand from Longboat Key's beaches created dunes along Gulf of Mexico Drive after Hurricane Helene's storm surge. All residents were allowed back to their homes on Sunday, Sept 29. All residents of Longboat Key are now being allowed to return to their homes, with certain restrictions, town officials announced Sunday.

Residents are allowed to begin returning to Longboat Key Sunday afternoon, according to town officials. Re-entry began at 1 p.m., but the island is only accessible from New Pass Bridge on the south end,

Update: Longboat Key Fire Rescue Department sent ABC7 a press release that reads: Tier 2 Re-Entry will begin at 5:00 p.m. this includes properties from the south end of the island, up to 4052 Gulf of Mexico Drive (Bayfront Park).

Fire Rescue Chief Paul Dezzi told community representatives there’s still uncertainties with the town’s water supply and infrastructure following Hurricane Helene.

The Longboat Key Fire Rescue Department opens the island at 5 p.m. in Tier Two re-entry. The re-entry will only include properties from the south end up to 4052 Gulf of Mexico Drive due to gas leaks throughout the island.