Disaster struck on October 9th when Hurricane Milton touched down in Florida at around 8:30 p.m. EDT. Still suffering from the effects of Hurricane Helene that occurred only 11 days earlier, the Siesta Key area in Florida, as well as its inhabitants, was devastated by the Category 3 storm.
According to the National Hurricane Center, Hurricane Milton sustained a maximum wind speed of 120 mph, creating a chain of tornadoes throughout Florida and causing flooding rains in the area. One of the hardest hit areas from Siesta Key to Fort Myers Beach, Charlotte Harbor, was reported to have been affected by a 5 to 10 foot storm surge. This not only caused many streets and towns to flood, but tornadoes also caused immense damage to windows and roofs.
But what does this mean for Florida and other affected areas? According to CBS News, as a result of Hurricane Milton, at least 24 people died and millions of people were left without power. After the devastation of both Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, the damages along the West Coast were estimated by President Biden to cost $50 million. With many homes completely destroyed, many Floridians are left without shelter and other key resources.
Hurricane Milton led to other long-lasting effects, however; for example, the hurricane left thousands of gas stations without resources and fuel, causing gas shortages throughout the entire state. AP News states that lines formed at gas stations without any gas, forcing people to wait until gas stations received supplies to leave.
Hurricane Milton also caused sinkholes to open up in Florida. According to USA Today, Florida, already prone to sinkholes, experienced multiple sinkholes that swallowed cars, roads, and other infrastructure. Similarly, Fox News stated that sinkholes caused sidewalks and roadways to be shut down, resulting in many individuals being unable to access their houses.
How can the Feehan community help with the recovery of Hurricane Milton? Although Florida may seem far from us, these undersupplied communities need our help. Donating to organizations like the American Red Cross and Greater Good Charities can provide affected areas with supplies, shelter, food, and support, as well as improve relief efforts for victims. Finding and buying from small businesses located in Florida can also help residents in Florida by directly contributing to their recovery. Locally, the Feehan community can help through blood drives through organizations like Feehan’s own Red Cross Club. Making an effort to contribute to charitable organizations to support communities in Florida can make all the difference during a crisis, allowing us to continue our mission for mercy and make a difference in the world around us.
Places to Donate to Support Those Affected:
Greater Good Charities Foundation:
American Red Cross:
https://www.redcross.org/donate/donation.html/
Sources Used:
https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/hurricane-milton-2024/#
https://apnews.com/article/hurricane-milton-florida-d044c0bb6b4ad1f5e2bd61ab44fb1b8c
https://www.foxweather.com/extreme-weather/sinkole-florida-scene-impact
