Hurricane Fiona pounded torrential rain on Puerto Rico on Monday, a day after knocking out power and water to much of the island and stranding hundreds.
The governor cautioned that it could take days to bring back the power supply. Many hospitals are on emergency power, making conditions difficult. Fallen trees and power wires hindered hospital access. The National Guard and emergency personnel rescued nearly 1,000 people overnight and Monday.
The storm pulled pavement off roadways, tore off roofs, and brought floods flooding into houses. It also knocked away a bridge and inundated two airports, AP News reported.
More Rains Expected
The storm was still forecasted to drop up to 15 inches (38 cm) of rain in some locations as it spun away from the US territory with 3.2 million people. Forecasts predicted a Category 3 or higher hurricane. It was predicted to pass near the Turks and Caicos islands on Tuesday and was expected not to endanger the US.
President Joe Biden declared an emergency in Puerto Rico, calling on both the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to coordinate disaster assistance operations for citizens. After Hurricane Fiona caused torrential rains, major flooding, mudslides, and outages, the White House urges to increase aid, according to CNN.
The memories of 2017, when Hurricane Maria inflicted more than a couple of thousand lives and left tens of billions of dollars in damage, are haunting local people who are still attempting to rebuild. Some whose homes were flooded out may face the prospect of beginning anew.
Although 2022's hurricane season has been mild so far, scientists fear the climate problem is making them stronger. Warmer global temperatures have led to more intense storms, according to a recent UN assessment. Scientists have also determined that the storms are more prone to stall, causing damaging rainfall, and lasting longer after landfall.
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Hurricane Fiona: How to Donate?
To individuals and companies that would like to send relief to the victims of the hurricane, these groups that are requesting donations are listed below in a developing, non-exhaustive list reported by NPR. One can send help using the links to their websites or social media profiles.
Brigada Solidaria del Oeste
The Puerto Rican mutual-aid group is asking for donations of first-aid kits, water filters, solar lamps, and water purification tablets for people who live there Along with emergency needs, the group welcomes monetary gifts via their offcial page.
Global Giving
Global Giving, an organization that supports and links other NGOs with contributors, has formed the "Hurricane Fiona Relief Fund." The group said the funds will address survivors' immediate needs" for food, housing, fuel, clean water, and hygiene goods.
Hispanic Federation
The group, which supports Latino communities across the US, is already in Puerto Rico giving emergency help and supplies. You can get in touch with them through their official website.
Taller Salud
The women-led charity coordinates disaster relief activities around the island, taking contributions of nonperishable food, diapers, water, and more. The charity accepts PayPal and website donations via their website.
PRxPR
Puerto Rican business leaders in the US formed PRxPR Relief and Restore Fund after Hurricane Maria to assist rebuild infrastructure and give disaster relief. The charity is requesting funds for Hurricane Fiona victims through Fundly.
