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Every Structure on Florida Air Force Base Unlivable Following Hurricane Michael, General Says

https://weather.com/safety/hurricane/news/2018-10-12-tyndall-air-force-base-damage-hurricane-michael

The damage to Florida's Tyndall Air Force Base is so complete and widespread following Hurricane Michael that officials told airmen and their families that they won't be able to return for some time.

After an initial assessment, it was determined that 100 percent of the buildings on the base were damaged or destroyed to the point that none of them are livable, a general told local media. The base, which is located 12 miles east of Panama City, is the nation's primary training facility for F-22 Raptor pilots.

"We need to restore basic utilities, clear our roads of trees and power lines, and assess the structural integrity of our buildings," Col. Brian Laidlaw said in a letter posted Thursday. "I know that you are eager to return. I ask you to be patient and try to focus on taking care of your families and each other. We can rebuild our base, but we can’t rebuild any of you."

All across the base, debris was scattered on the ground from roofs and facades blown off by the storm. A display fighter jet was overturned and thrown away from its display, and planes that were under repair and therefore unable to be flown out of the storm's path were seen sitting inside damaged hangars.

On Friday, Florida Senators Marco Rubio and Bill Nelson, as well as Rep. Neal Dunn, issued a formal request for help from the U.S. Air Force to quickly rebuild Tyndall.

"Each of us stand ready to work with the Air Force to rebuild Tyndall AFB and advocate for the resources needed to do so," said the letter.

The base was evacuated prior to the storm's arrival, except for a few essential personnel. No injuries were reported on the base, where some 3,600 men and women are stationed, according to the Associated Press.