ANNA MARIA, Fla. (WFLA) — During the news conference, DeSantis said the Florida death toll is “probably higher” than the 15 confirmed fatalities from Hurricane Helene.

Since the governor spoke Thursday morning, the FDLE told 8 On Your Side that it has received reports of 21 deaths.

The Associated Press reported on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, that the nationwide death toll has now hit 200 as Georgia and North Carolina continue to report more fatalities.

While speaking on recovery efforts at Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria, the governor said many points of distribution have been closed as many stores in areas of recovery have opened up.

DeSantis also touted the state’s schools in affected areas, which have largely reopened following Helene’s devastation.

When speaking about restoring power to those affected by Helene, the governor said less than 9,000 accounts are still affected, noting it is the fastest restoration of power in response to a major storm the state has seen since he took over as governor in 2019.

DeSantis also announced he will temporarily lift time restrictions and regulations on housing rentals through executive action.

You can watch the full press conference on the video player above.