The Drakes Branch post office has now reopened, according to a press release from the United States Postal Service (USPS).

“The Postal Service is pleased to reopen the Drakes Branch post office and once again deliver excellent customer service to our community,” said Richmond District Manager Janice Atherly. “We appreciate our customers’ patience.”

Despite inclement weather, the post office reopened Dec.10, according to USPS Corporate Communication Representative Freda Sauter.

Retail hours at the post office will continue at 8 a.m.-1 p.m. and 2:15 p.m.-5 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m.-noon Saturdays.

The post office is closed Sunday.

Retail operations of the Drakes Branch post office were previously moved to Charlotte Court House following Hurricane Michael.

“The Drakes Branch post office, which sustained extensive damage during Hurricane Michael, is tentatively scheduled to reopen in December,” said USPS District Communications Coordinator Frances Kipper in a November press release. “Additional details will be provided when they become available.”

High winds and flooding caused during Hurricane Michael impacted much of the county, including leaving 70 percent of Southside Electric Cooperative service members across the region.

Roads also remained closed extensively in the county due to washouts, flooding and downed power lines.

“We apologize for any inconvenience to our customers, appreciate customers’ patience and understanding, and are working to restore postal operations at these Post Offices as soon as possible,” said the November release.

“The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations,” said the December release.