Rebuilding, Relief, Recovery, and the Urgency of Climate Action

By Nick Caceres

In the wake of Hurricane Helene and Milton, people across the Eastern United States have experienced record-breakingly harsh weather conditions in the region, reaching from Southern Florida and as far north as the Appalachian Mountains, with flooding ravaging entire towns. Although it has been weeks since the storms made landfall, communities are still recovering and there are ways to help.

When it comes to the people of Western North Carolina, the state has launched the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund, run by the United Way of North Carolina. Donations will be distributed as grants to nonprofits directly working in relief efforts in regards to any urgent or unmet needs. There is no minimal amount, meaning every dollar counts! Another charity option for Western North Carolina is North Carolina Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster which is a collection of disaster relief nonprofits, all of them vetted through working with both state and federal agencies such as the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team, MDC Rural Forward, Operation BBQ Relief and American Red Cross. 

Down in Florida, The Florida Disaster Fund works with both the public and private sector in order to directly support hurricane victims. Waterkeepers Florida is another charity, which works to restore and protect access to natural aquatic habitats. The Waterkeepers emphasize the importance of protecting aquatic as they can safeguard communities against effects of extreme weather. The severity of storm surges can be better controlled through the presence of healthy coastal habitats, ranging from wetlands, dunes and mangroves. The Florida Wildlife Federation should also be taken into consideration during this time, as they aim to protect wild habitats through advocacy and education and address ongoing climate change and its effects. 

There are a plethora of other reputable charities to consider when giving support for these affected communities and it starts with the incentive to make a difference.

A long lasting difference can also be made by making decisions that reduce climate change. This recent streak of hurricanes is directly exacerbated by the warming global temperature. Warmer oceans fuel hurricanes through the extraction of water vapor and heat, leading to a faster rate of intensity yet slower movement, a dangerous combination once they make landfall. Storm surges are also further intensified due to rising sea levels. 

These factors are yet a major reason to place focus on tackling environmental problems and protecting the people affected by these hurricanes through preparation and relief. 

Images courtesy of #UNLITTER