In 2020, Perdido Key State Park endured hurricanes Laura, Sally and Zeta as each took aim at Louisiana, Alabama and Florida. Overall, there were eight named storms in the Gulf of Mexico in a short period of time.
On Sept. 16, 2020, Hurricane Sally came ashore as a slow-moving, Category 2 storm near Gulf Shores, Alabama. The storm drenched areas of Alabama and Florida with more than two feet of rain.
Hurricane Sally’s estimated wind speeds at 105 mph, combined with rain, storm surge and flash flooding, left devastating impacts at Perdido Key State Park.
The primary impacts of the storm were to the coastal systems, and, in response, DEP is using natural resource management to support recovery of these dynamic systems. The majority of the dunes will be revegetated naturally to help capture sand and begin reforming these dune systems.
While the dunes are recovering, they continue to provide habitat for several threatened and endangered species such as the Perdido Key beach mouse.
Hurricane Sally also damaged most of the facilities at Perdido Key State Park. At the west end and east end of the park, repairs were needed to the restrooms, boardwalks, picnic pavilions and toll booths, along with other amenities such as picnic tables and trash can holders.
“Visitors come to Perdido Key expecting to enjoy the white sand beaches Northwest Florida is known for and the multiple recreational opportunities at the park," said Kiersten Wilson, park manager. “After Hurricane Sally, we’ve been working diligently to clean up the debris and are excited to reopen all sections of the park as soon as it is safe to do so.”
“Visitors are eager to get back to the beach,” Wilson said.
