ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (WFLA) — Terrifying moments caught on video showed Hurricane Helene’s powerful and deadly storm surge as it crashed into a Florida home last week.
The homeowners, who evacuated, could only watch and pray that their Pinellas County home would withstand the beating.
KT Oliveira and her husband decided to evacuate but were able to watch the storm in real time.
“At that moment, we realized the door was gone,” Oliveira said. “We watched it for about an hour. Then at 9:30, we lost internet connection.”
As the water rose from the bay, homes on the Venetian Isles did not stand a chance. The homeowners’ Ring cameras were running the entire time, capturing water rushing in and flooding their yard.
As the water pounded their home, pieces of their lives were literally pulling apart.
“The water comes in, and it’s like with every single wave, it is trying to wash away a memory,” Oliveira said.
The damage is extensive, but despite the heartbreaking loss and uncertainty, the couple hopes to rebuild.
“We love it here,” Oliveira said. “You know, it is hard to believe this is the same ocean that came through the house. It is beautiful, and it’s devastating. We want to stay here, and what that looks like we are not entirely sure yet.”