Melissa Montoya

The News-Press

For more Hurricane Irma coverage visit: news-press.com/hurricane.

Initial reports by Sanibel city officials say the island fared well during Hurricane Irma's lashing.

Judie Zimomra, Sanibel's city manager, said Hurricane Irma's turn to the east meant Sanibel was spared.

Based on this initial reporting, she said, residents will not be required to have re-entry passes to gain access to Sanibel.

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"It appears we have downed trees and minimal structure damage," Zimomra said late Sunday night. "Most of the island is without electrical power."

Zimomra said residents should continue to shelter in place and to obey the curfew. A county-wide curfew has been established from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m.

The Island Water Association, which provides water to the island, needs to analyze the water to make sure it is good for consumption.

"They have some surveying they have to do to be certain about the water quality and condition," she said.

Residents will not be arrival to travel over the Sanibel Causeway until it is inspected by the Florida Department of Transportation. FDOT is expected to inspect the bridge Monday morning, Zimomra said.

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While Irma's turn to the east spared Sanibel, Zimomra said her thoughts are with the communities in Collier County that were a direct hit.

"We know that could have easily been us," she said.

Zimomra said some of the city's employees who own homes in Lehigh Acres had damage occur to their homes, including a roof blowing away.

There were no 911 phone calls received during the storm, she added.

Zimomra said high surges are not expected at the moment.

"However until we get past the high tide at 10:34 a.m., it's always a possibility," she said.