On September 28, Hurricane Ian struck Florida, causing catastrophic damage [unrepairable physical damage] to many Florida communities. It speed of the winds was 150 miles per hour. This makes Ian one of the strongest hurricanes to ever hit Florida.
Hurricanes are powerful storms that form over warm ocean water. Their high winds and heavy rains cause massive destruction. This September, two hurricanes endangered lives from Puerto Rico, to Cuba, to Florida, all the way to Canada.
Before Hurricane Ian, many people were still reeling from another hurricane. On Sunday, September 18, Hurricane Fiona had ripped through Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico is an island in the Caribbean Sea. It is a United States territory. Hurricane Fiona caused extensive damage. Roads flooded. Bridges were destroyed. Landslides damaged buildings. Puerto Rico was still recovering from Hurricane Maria five years ago.
After Fiona passed through Puerto Rico, it turned north. It hit Bermuda and the Turks and Caicos Islands. From there, it travelled all the way to Canada. Many believe it is the worst storm to ever hit Canada.
These hurricanes are the latest in a series of extreme weather events. Scientists have shown that these events are happening more frequently because of climate change. There are many efforts to reduce the effects of climate change. However, people are working to help the victims of hurricanes right now. The United States government is working with Florida and Puerto Rico to make sure they have all the emergency supplies, equipment, and help they need. The American Red Cross and other disaster relief organizations are also working to help people in other affected areas.
What Can You Do? You can help, too. You can support one of the many organizations that helps people during disasters. You may also investigate steps you can take to fight climate change.
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