Tourists told to steer clear of the Florida Keys
Residents of some areas of the Florida Keys were allowed back to survey the damage wrought by Hurricane Irma but for tourists, it remains a no-go zone.
Some homeowners and business owners in the Upper Keys were back but the entire island chain will remain off-limits for tourists for the immediate future.
Travelers have been urged to contact their airlines and hotels to change plans for any immediate vacations in the Keys.
The condition of lodging facilities varies from minimal to severe damage due to storm surge, and most will only reopen for business once all power, water and communications are restored, tourism officials said in a statement on the fla-keys.com website.
Both Keys airports are operational but are being used solely to bring in relief supplies and workers to help with rebuilding.
It is unclear exactly when each area the Keys will be ready to welcome visitors again but Key West city officials said they expect their island will open by the time the annual Fantasy Fest takes place on October 20.
Federal Emergency Management Agency said up to one in four homes throughout the islands are feared destroyed and nearly two-thirds suffered significant damage.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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