Gulf Shores, Ala. — (GSN) — As the sun comes up this morning, there is a profound sense of relief across our coastal community. The eye of Hurricane Isaias did not make direct landfall over us, sparing Gulf Shores and Orange Beach from the worst of its destructive core. While we count our blessings, our thoughts and deepest sympathies immediately turn to our neighbors to the east who bore the brunt of the storm's fury.

Hurricane Isaias came ashore near Destin, Florida, as a Category 2 storm packing 105 mph winds. The storm left a path of devastating damage across the Florida Panhandle, tearing roofs off buildings, knocking down trees and power lines, and triggering severe flash flooding and storm surges in coastal towns like Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, and Destin.

Many local residents of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach know all too well how the morning after a major hurricane feels. We know the eerie quiet, the anxious walk around the yard to assess damage, and the daunting task of clearing debris and beginning the cleanup process.

This morning, in Florida alone, more than 400,000 people are waking up in the dark without power. As we sit down to have a cup of coffee today, let's take a moment to check on our neighbors—both the ones across the street and our friends across the state line. Whether it's offering a helping hand, sending supplies, or extending words of encouragement, our community spirit is what helps us all rebuild and recover together.