Florida residents are returning to their Gulf Coast homes after evacuating for Hurricane Milton. Traffic clogged Interstate 75 and other major routes to the coast Friday as people who fled hundreds of miles to escape the storm made long, slow trips back.

The declaration makes individual assistance available for residents and businesses in 34 counties affected by Hurricane Milton.

Residents of North Redington and St. Petersburg are returning after Hurricane Milton evacuation orders hoping to have a home to return after two major hurricanes hit Florida’s Gulf Coast in just over two weeks.

FEMA held a press conference in Punta Gorda to discuss disaster relief assistance for those impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Officials emphasized the importance of registering for aid, addressed concerns about the Disaster Relief Fund, and announced an extended grace period for residents with lapsed National Flood Insurance Program policies.

No teams have reported serious issues that might impact operations this winter.