Surname 1

Student’s Name

Instructor’s Name

Course Name

Date

Surviving Hurricane Irma

I was 12 years old when Hurricane Irma made landfall as a category 3 storm, brining

destructive wind, rain and tidal surge. The storm was considered one of the most powerful

hurricanes, causing catastrophic damage. Hurricane Irma brought a damaging blow to the

Florida Keys. In the face of adversity, the Florida Keys residents and community persevered. I

had never experienced such a natural disaster before thus whatever happened during the

hurricane was terrifying. I was only twelve but I remember every detail concerning the hurricane

as if it just occurred yesterday. Families were left homeless not knowing where to find shelter

after places they had known for long as their homes were destroyed. I was helpless and all I

could do was to cling on to my father since I always knew him to be brave and courageous thus

he could do anything to protect our family. Therefore, Hurricane Irma was a unique experience

that I will remember forever.

Evacuation

The storm worsened hence people were advised to move to safer areas. I remember

having to evacuate, leaving mostly everything I own back at home, not knowing if I will ever

return. My family and I evacuated to Orlando, Florida for safety. The storm grew so large that it

nearly covered the whole state. We were feeling the effects of the storm in Orlando. I tried not

to worry too much, but it was very difficult not knowing. We even went to Universal Studios to

try to have fun and distract ourselves but all that was in vain. I could not help but keep worrying
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about my home and friends. Leaving behind my friends whom we grew up together was

devastating since they were like family. I wished I could bring them with us to Orlando.

Additionally, I was very concerned about the people who did not evacuate, especially when the

Keys lost power and communication. I would hear of stories where there was no power and that

chaos was breaking out. I even heard of stories where homes were being broken into and it

sounded like the movie, the Purge. Well, maybe not so extreme.

Return

Once the storm was over, the county eventually opened, and we were able to return

home. I was anxious since I did not know what to expect back at home. On our way back, I was

shocked to see the amount of damage that the lower Keys suffered. With each mile made closer

to home, I became more concerned. Do I have a house to return to? What would my life be

like? What about School? What about Football?

Fortunately, we suffered very little. Our house was not exposed to adverse effects

brought by the storm. Sadly, not so many of my friends were as lucky as us. Their homes were

destroyed and they had to start from scratch. “What can I do to help?” I asked myself as I

observed the situation.

Recovery

I felt the need to help others recover since my home was not damaged. Therefore, I

motivated my parents and some neighbors whose homes were not destroyed to join efforts and

help those who were adversely affected by the storm. Thus, we came together as a community

and helped in cleaning the neighborhood. After a few weeks of staying at home and trying to

figure out everything concerning the storm, it was time to head back to school. HOB football

inaugural season was awaiting us and we had to attend the first game (American Heritage). On
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our way to the tournament, we were astonished to witness the damage caused by the hurricane.

Trees and mangroves were uprooted and some were blocking the road. The driver had hard time

locating passable areas. Moreover, the trash brought by the storm was massive almost the height

of our bus. “Oh my goodness, all these trash?” shouted one of my friends.

Despite the challenges, we won the football game. Winning meant something positive for

HOB and for the community. It gave the players purpose. To show that we are “Keys” strong.

Conclusion

Even though our home was not destroyed, I felt the impact left by the storm. My friends

were left homeless thus they had to start from scratch. Furthermore, communication systems

were destroyed and the environment was negatively impacted. For instance, tress and mangroves

were uprooted and trash was all over the county. It took some time for people to recover and

resume their normal lives. I never thought such a thing would happen but I am grateful I

survived. Hurricane Irma remains the most devastating event I have ever experienced.