08/05/2024
I’m writing with an update on Red Cross response to Hurricane Debby. There is the potential for incredible impact to communities that are still recovering from previous disasters.
The path as it sits today is looking like it might impact one of three communities that are still recovering:
• Fort Myers which was devastated by Hurricane Ian
• The Big Bend area still recovering from Hurricane Idalia
• Mexico Beach which was devasted by Hurricane Michael
Whichever path it takes, the impacts could be catastrophic to these communities. There is potential for 66 inches of rain in these areas. The American Red Cross has initiated a level 4 disaster operation, has committed $ 1 million in response support and has begun moving 200 disaster responders (including volunteers from the Southwest Indiana Chapter) to the potentially impacted areas. We have also activated our National Incident Command Team and these leaders were due to arrive Friday in Florida. We stand ready to respond before the disaster strikes. This way, we can start helping survivors the moment they need us.
If you have employees, family or friends who might be impacted by this disaster, please share these safety tips and share our free Emergency App, which has real-time severe weather alerts and shelter locations (search “American Red Cross” in mobile app stores).
We will be watching this situation closely and keeping you up to date as it progresses.
If you would like to give to Red Cross disaster relief efforts from Debby, go to www.redcross.org/donate. There, you will find the giving page for this particular storm. If your company would like to make a gift, please let me know and we can arrange.