Hurricane Michael, a storm which formed on Oct. 7, 2018, has caused a great deal of damage to the Florida panhandle. The storm is considered the third most intense Atlantic hurricane to hit the United States, in terms of pressure. The maximum sustained winds were measured at 155 m.p.h.
People are trying to recover from the damage whilst teams are searching the wreckage for any people that are unaccounted for. As they search, the death toll continues to rise.
Right now, there are 27 accounted US deaths according to the BBC. Many of the missing are from Panama City.
According to Time, there are $8 billion in insured losses caused by the hurricane.
Amid the destruction caused by the storm, there is still no power in many regions as well as a struggle to obtain food and fuel.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is assisting people by setting up distribution points where people can get food and water.
Many people are still in shelters as well, since their homes were destroyed by Michael.
School districts, jails and prisons are also affected by the storm. Many schools are closed until further notice since they do not have power.
The Florida Department of Corrections as well as the Bay Correctional Facility have had to evacuate and relocate inmates to other facilities.
Telecommunications services were also hindered due to Michael, with many unable to contact loved ones.
Although it was hindered, cell phone service has begun to be restored to the region affected. Some are criticizing the phone companies over how long service has taken to come back.
Verizon announced that a three month credit would be given to every customer in the Bay and Gulf regions.
Among infrastructure affected, US 98, the roadway that follows the coastline along the Panhandle, is closed in multiple places due to washouts.
A great deal of Michael’s wrath also hit the state of Georgia.
Much damage was done to crops, as well as debris causing a substantial amount to homes and other parts of the city. Many people also report that they are without power, meaning a significant amount of harm done to the infrastructure in Albany alone.
Looters are taking advantage of the misfortune of people and their property that was hit during the storm.
Armed looters are targeting homes and businesses in the middle of the region devastated by the hurricane.
Some people have made signs that threaten the looters in an attempt to ward them off.
Police officers have also been strained, working 16 to 18 hour shifts with their own homes being destroyed with no sleep or ability to shower.
Utility workers are working in the region in an effort to rebuild the infrastructure destroyed by the storm.
Hurricane Michael is currently one of the most damaging hurricanes to hit the United States.
With a wide scale of damage to home, businesses and infrastructure, the effect has been felt by many.
Between rebuilding and facing looters, people are still facing the pain brought on by hurricane Michael.
Sean Kahle
Staff Writer