Hurricane Ian leaves a trail of destruction in Florida: 21 dead so far, alligators swim in streets

Hurricane Ian leaves a trail of destruction in Florida: 21 dead so far, alligators swim in streets | Abroad

Hurricane Ian has wreaked havoc in the US state of Florida. Local authorities are currently presuming 21 deaths, although they stress that they are not yet completely certain of that number. About two million homes are still without electricity.

J.V., S.V.M

September 30. 2022

Source:
AFP/BELGA

Ian made landfall in Florida on Wednesday as a Category 4 hurricane with sustained winds of 150 mph. After that Ian gradually lost strength but caused havoc and floods.

A crocodile swims in the street. © ANP/EPA

Many streets in Florida are flooded. Houses, bridges and boats were washed away. About two million households are still without power, Governor Ron DeSantis said. According to the Miami Herald newspaper, the water in Key Largo – the Florida Keys – is so high that alligators swim in it.

Officials are warning residents of flooded areas about hazards in the water, such as pollutants, chemicals or alligators. Damaged electricity and gas pipelines can also cause loss of life.

Over Florida, Ian weakened to a tropical storm and then re-strengthened over the Atlantic. A Category 1 hurricane, Ian is now heading toward South Carolina, where it will make landfall later today. A state of emergency was declared there as a precaution.

On Tuesday, Ian was a Category 3 hurricane that hit Cuba. At least three people were killed and the entire island was temporarily without power. Large parts of the country are still in darkness.