Florida agriculture was heavily impacted by three hurricanes in 2024: Debby, Helene, and Milton. Researchers at the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) estimate Hurricane Helene’s agricultural damages at $40 million to $162 million.

Helene was a Category 4 storm that brought 140 mph winds and widespread damage across north-central Florida and beyond. Field crops, vegetables, melons and potatoes suffered $10.4 million to $38.2 million in losses. Citrus losses ranged up to $4.3 million. Fruit, tree nuts and greenhouses sustained up to $12.1 million and $15 million, respectively. Animal-related losses reached up to $44.4 million.

Helene impacted 6.1 million acres of agricultural land, 68% of which was grazing land. Researchers adjusted damage estimates to avoid overlapping with Hurricane Debby’s prior losses in August.

As researchers finalize Helene’s assessment, preliminary data for Hurricane Milton, which caused additional damage in October, is also being prepared. Final reports are expected in 2025.

Read more on estimated damages from Hurricane Helene here.