Hurricane Michael Brings Out the Best in Local Residents

Hurricane Michael made landfall in Florida as a massive category 5 event about 1 year ago as of the time of this writing (10/1/18).  It was only the fourth hurricane ever to hit the US as a cat-5, and it caused massive damage to those unfortunate enough to be within its path.  However, sometimes devastation can bring out the best in people, and that’s exactly what happened with Hurricane Michael.

Silver Lining of Hurricane Michael

The hurricane caused an estimated $25 billion worth of damage, and the rebuilding process continues a full one year after landfall.  Most of the disaster funding has come from federal government agencies like FEMA ($1.3 billion), but it’s not enough.  Luckily, local organizations have stepped up to help close the gap – to the tune of $150 million in donated money, supplies and time.

These local agencies, which include religious organizations, local businesses and local non-profits, are critical because of their “feet on the ground” nature.  They are able to better target residents in rural areas, as well as renters and homeless people.  They are also able to move quickly and are subject to fewer restrictions compared to large federal agencies. 

In addition to non-profits, local residents stepped up and organized themselves to help.  A form of comradery emerged, bolstered by a feeling amongst the locals that they were being overlooked nationally.  For some reason, Hurricane Michael generated less national attention than other recent storms like Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Maria, so local residents united in an effort to fortify their own self-reliance. 

I think the notion of neighbors helping neighbors is awesome.  Sometimes, hitting rock bottom can bring out the best in people, and that’s exactly what happened in the aftermath of Hurricane Michael.  It’s a nice silver lining in an otherwise bleak situation.