The Aftermath of Hurricane Ian
This past week a disastrous hurricane swept through the Southeastern United States. Hurricane Ian is one of the worst hurricanes to ever impact the United States. Residents of Florida were told to evacuate days before the storm arrived.
The hurricane first struck Cuba last Tuesday and the entire island lost power. By the time Ian arrived on Florida’s gulf coast side, winds had reached 155 mph. Only a few mph away from becoming a category 5 hurricane. The United States has not witnessed a category 5 hurricane since October 2018, when hurricane Michael devastated the Florida Panhandle.
The current death toll of hurricane Ian is 68, according to USA today news. Rescue efforts are still underway searching for survivors among the aftermath. Ian dropped to a tropical storm before slamming both North and South Carolina this past weekend. High winds and flooding affected almost every city. And somehow, Ian still had the energy to hit Virginia on Sunday, threatening severe flooding. Ian only lasted a few days, but has caused years of damage. Some neighborhoods in Florida are completely under water, while others have become islands. Marinas all over have been completely wiped out. Many roads are still blocked and people remain stranded awaiting help.The one and only bridge annexing Sanibel Island to Florida’s mainland was destroyed.
The hurricane caused millions to lose power, and estimated about 25 billion dollars in damages. Rob Desantis, the governor of Florida, tweeted on Thursday September 29th “As Hurricane Ian passes, do not rush to come home- we have crews working to clear the roads and restore power”. Volunteers and workers are operating around the clock to help rescue citizens, supply food and water and administer relief efforts.
Unfortunately Cuba, Florida, and the North and South Carolina coast lines will be recovering from this tragedy for years. As hurricane season dwindles in October, we hope Ian is the last to strike land this year. If you would like to support those affected by hurricane Ian, visit FEMA.gov, Redcross.org, Americanhumane.org, or many others to donate or volunteer. Uncontrollable disasters like Ian require unity and help. This is the time to help.
Reference/source
https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2022/10/03/hurricane-ian-live-updates-death-toll-flooding/8
163926001/
https://www.usatoday.com/in-depth/graphics/2022/09/29/annotated-maps-videos-hurricane-ian/10459976
