HURRICANE MARIA-PUERTO RICO 2017

 HURRICANE MARIA-PUERTO RICO 2017

 

Hurricane Maria was a devastating Category 5 tropical cyclone that struck Puerto Rico on September 20, 2017. It was one of the most destructive hurricanes in the history of the island, and the strongest hurricane to hit Puerto Rico in over 80 years. Maria made landfall with winds exceeding 155 mph (250 km/h), causing widespread damage across the entire island.

The storm's powerful winds, heavy rainfall, and flooding led to severe infrastructure damage, including the destruction of homes, roads, power lines, and hospitals. The entire electric grid was knocked out, leaving Puerto Rico without power for months in many areas. The destruction was compounded by flooding from rivers and landslides, especially in mountainous regions.

The impact of the hurricane was catastrophic: at least 3,000 people died as a result of the storm and its aftermath, with many more suffering from injuries, diseases, and lack of access to basic needs. Recovery was slow, with logistical challenges and the lack of resources complicating efforts to restore essential services. Despite global aid, the island's infrastructure and economy were left severely crippled. Hurricane Maria highlighted the vulnerability of Puerto Rico to extreme weather events, especially considering its political status and limited access to federal resources. The disaster sparked debates over the U.S. government's response, and it remains a tragic chapter in Puerto Rico’s history.