Despite multiple reports of flooding around the county on Thursday, St. Johns County had lifted all evacuation notices by late Friday morning.
Many businesses and public services — including most government offices, schools and libraries — remained closed Friday. But a lot of businesses not directly affected by flooding were back open. As for the business community, damage varied on a case-by-case basis; however, there is no indication of widespread destruction.
"In Matthew we were about 6 inches away from coming in the winery," Cox said."And, in some aspects, down on the bayfront it looked worse.Not far from the winery, the St. Augustine Distillery on Riberia Street also handled high water conditions. Richard Goldman, president and CEO of the St. Johns County visitors and convention bureau, said his organization spent the early part of Friday checking in with local businesses.
Even businesses that did suffer flooding damage are often able to bounce back quickly. Gas Full Service Restaurant on Anastasia Island reported water and plumbing damage but still plans to reopen Oct. 4.