Catastrophe in Carolina

The calamitous floods that ambushed South Carolina will be recorded in the history books, because of the lives it has taken and the destruction it has created. By the time the last raindrop is counted, the October 2015 storm, Joaquin, will go down as one of the most prolific rainfall events in the modern history of the United States.

South Carolina residents are facing uncertainty as they cope with major flooding after record-setting rains. More than 1600 National Guard members and others such as FEMA helped start the cleanup, some prepared for the threat of floodwaters moving towards the coast and others prepare for funerals. Seventeen people died in the state and the damage to infrastructure was devastating. But is this disaster being broadcasted adequately?

In August 2011, New York was damaged by Hurricane Irene and the total cost of damages was 16.5 million. Due to Hurricane Joaquin’s significant 60 million dollars damages, one would think that South Carolina would receive an elevated amount of relief. Two days after Hurricane Irene, 9,000 planes were delayed for flight and redirected to get supplies for those in need in New York, but a week after Joaquin South Carolina is still in need of aviation to deliver necessities. Due to the height of the flood waters exceeding those of the roads, vehicles have lost the ability to deliver supplies to those who are now poverty-stricken. Assistance is needed but no one knows to help because they are not informed of the dire circumstances.

South Carolina is an important state. It is the birthplace of barbecue, basketry and James Brown. “The Notebook” was filmed here and they are the number one producer of peaches in the country! What would we do without South Carolina? Those baskets that carried your peaches are now gone, and now you have to pay more for peaches also. James Brown gave the country soul and make us “feel good.” We should help South Carolina get back onto their feet because they as state offer vital necessities.