Hurricane Isaias – Recovery Updates
Last updated: Saturday, October 10, 2026 @ 1:45PM
The City of Foley has begun post-storm recovery operations following Hurricane Isaias.
Preliminary assessments conducted by City crews overnight indicate that Foley avoided the widespread damage experienced during previous major hurricanes. However, several areas sustained damage, including downed trees, power outages and debris along roadways.
Here’s what we know so far:
DOWNED TREES AND DAMAGE: City crews identified significant tree damage in the area between Myrtle Avenue and Highway 98, from Alston Street to Cedar Street. Additional downed trees were observed in the northwestern portion of the city and at Graham Creek.
POWER OUTAGES: Riviera Utilities and Baldwin EMC have mobilized to continue restoration efforts. Residents should stay away from downed power lines and avoid approaching trees or debris that may be in contact with electrical equipment.
ROAD CLEARING: City crews and contracted crews worked overnight to remove fallen trees and clear roadways where conditions allowed. Additional assessments and clearing operations are underway today. Motorists should remain cautious and avoid areas where crews are working.
FLOODING: Initial assessments have not identified significant flooding issues within the city. City crews will continue monitoring conditions.
Recovery Efforts Continue Today
City crews began additional damage assessments early this morning to identify priority areas for debris removal and roadway clearing. These assessments will help guide recovery operations throughout the day.
While initial reports are encouraging, the full extent of damage is not yet known. Some areas were surveyed after dark, and additional damage may be identified during daylight inspections.
Roadside Debris Collection
As residents begin cleaning up following Hurricane Isaias, the City of Foley is expanding roadside debris collection efforts to assist with storm recovery.
- The City’s regular 6-cubic-yard limit on residential yard debris has been temporarily lifted until further notice.
- Beginning Monday, October 12, Public Works crews will collect roadside debris Monday through Friday, from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Crews will work throughout the city to collect as much debris as possible. Not every street will be serviced every day, but the City’s goal is to complete the initial round of storm debris collection within two weeks following the storm.
How to Properly Sort Storm Debris
Residents are asked to separate storm debris into the following categories to help crews work safely and efficiently:
Vegetative Debris: Tree limbs, branches, logs, leaves and other natural yard debris.
Construction and Demolition Debris: Damaged fencing, lumber, drywall, roofing materials, carpet and furniture. Keep these materials separate from vegetation.
Appliances and Electronics: Refrigerators, washers, dryers, televisions, computers and other electronic equipment should be separated from other debris. Contact Public Works for collection or disposal guidance.
Hazardous Materials: Paint, chemicals, pesticides, fuel, batteries and other hazardous materials should NOT be placed roadside for City collection. Contact Public Works for proper disposal guidance.
Important Debris Placement Reminders
- Place debris near the roadside without blocking travel lanes, sidewalks or drainage ditches.
- Keep debris piles away from fire hydrants, mailboxes, utility poles, meters and power lines.
- Do not mix household garbage with storm debris.
- Never touch or attempt to remove debris tangled in downed power lines.
Regular Garbage & Recycling Collection
Regular household garbage and recycling collection will resume normal pickup schedules beginning Monday, October 12.
Residents should place their carts roadside by 6 a.m. on their regularly scheduled collection day.
Household garbage and recycling must remain separate from storm debris.
Questions about debris collection or sanitation services? Contact Foley Public Works at 251-943-8897.
Hiring a Contractor After the Storm
As residents begin repairing damage caused by Hurricane Isaias, the City of Foley encourages homeowners to use caution when hiring contractors for tree removal, roofing, fencing, structural repairs, electrical work and other storm-related services.
Before hiring a contractor, residents should take the following precautions:
- Verify Licensing and Credentials: Confirm that the contractor has a valid City of Foley business license and any required state certifications. Residents can contact the City of Foley Revenue Department at 251-943-1545 or revenue@cityoffoley.org to verify business licensing. The department is available Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Get Written Estimates: Obtain two or three written estimates before selecting a contractor. Make sure the scope of work, materials, costs and expected timeline are clearly outlined.
- Request Proof of Insurance: Ask contractors to provide proof of appropriate insurance coverage before work begins.
- Get a Written Contract: Never rely solely on verbal agreements. Review all terms carefully before signing.
- Protect Your Payments: Avoid paying large amounts upfront or paying the full cost before work is completed. Never sign over an insurance check directly to a contractor.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: If your property sustained damage, consult your insurance provider before authorizing major repairs.
- Watch for Scams: Be cautious of unsolicited door-to-door offers, high-pressure sales tactics and prices that seem too good to be true.
Contractor Debris Removal Requirements
Residents hiring tree removal services, landscaping companies or other contractors for storm cleanup should be aware that contractors are responsible for hauling away and properly disposing of all debris they generate.
Contractors may not leave fallen trees, tree limbs or other cleanup debris at the roadside for City collection. Residents should confirm that debris removal and proper disposal are included in their agreement before work begins.
Additional Updates
The City of Foley appreciates the patience and cooperation of residents as City crews, emergency responders, utility crews and contractors continue recovery efforts throughout our community.
Additional information will be shared as recovery operations progress.